Vanilla planifolia
Vanilla planifolia
Vanilla Orchid
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Taxonomy
Family Orchidaceae · Genus Vanilla
Description
Vanilla planifolia, the classic vanilla orchid, is a vigorous climbing vine with glossy leaves and aerial roots. With warmth, humidity, and a sturdy support to climb, it can bloom and produce the famous vanilla pods used for flavoring.
Common Names
Vanilla OrchidFlat-leaved VanillaBourbon VanillaMexican Vanilla
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical Mesoamerica (Mexico, Central America, Caribbean) in lowland humid forests.
usdaZones
11–12 outdoors; greenhouse/indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Philodendron, Monstera, Anthurium, Nephrolepis (Boston Fern), Hoya, Phalaenopsis, Vanda
culturalUses
Source of natural vanilla; cured seed pods flavor foods and beverages, used in perfumery and traditional remedies.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, filtered/indirect light (orchid-bright). Avoid harsh midday sun; gentle morning or late afternoon sun is ideal.
WateringKeep evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top inch of mix is just barely dry; reduce slightly in cooler months.
SoilVery airy orchid mix: medium bark + sphagnum + perlite/charcoal. Can be grown in baskets or mounted; excellent drainage is essential.
FertilizerBalanced orchid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 2–4 weeks in spring/summer; reduce in fall/winter. Occasional Cal-Mag is beneficial.
HumidityHigh (60–80%+). Provide airflow to prevent rot; misting or a humidifier helps indoors.
TemperatureWarm: 65–85°F (18–29°C) ideal; avoid below 55°F (13°C). Prefers warm nights.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, climbing hemi-epiphytic orchid vine with aerial roots.
Mature SizeIn habitat 33–100 ft (10–30 m); in cultivation typically 6–33 ft (2–10 m) with support.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, humid conditions.
BloomingUsually after 3+ years when mature; spring–summer. Flowers last a day; hand-pollination often required; pods ripen in 6–9 months.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight winter rest with reduced water and feeding.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering, Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonLate spring to summer during active growth.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTip-prune to encourage branching and loop or train sections horizontally to stimulate flowering. Remove dead or damaged growth; avoid heavy cuts on mature, flower-ready sections.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years or when mix decomposes. Use a tall stake/trellis; handle fragile aerial roots gently.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and thrips. Root/stem rot from overwatering or poor airflow; sunburn under intense light. Use cultural controls and insecticidal soap as needed.
ToxicityGenerally non-toxic to pets and people; sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
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