Vanilla Orchid – Vanilla planifolia in 7 cm pot

Vanilla Orchid
Vanilla planifolia

Vanilla planifolia is a tropical climbing orchid and the primary source of natural vanilla. It produces long, fleshy vines with glossy green leaves and pale yellow-green orchid flowers, which must be hand-pollinated to develop the famous vanilla pods. Grown for both its beauty and utility, this orchid is a rewarding but slow-maturing plant that can take several years to produce fruit.

Native to Central America, it thrives in warm, humid conditions and makes an excellent specimen for greenhouses, sunrooms, or tropical indoor spaces. With the right care and patience, it can yield home-grown vanilla pods—an exceptional experience for any edible plant enthusiast.

Plant Care

Grow in bright, indirect light in a warm, humid environment. Provide a vertical support or moss pole for the vine to climb. Use a well-draining orchid or aroid mix. Keep evenly moist but not soggy. Requires hand pollination to produce pods. Maintain a minimum temperature of 10°C year-round. Best suited to indoor cultivation in temperate climates.