TopTropicals Plant Catalog

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Variegated form

Vanilla planifolia, Vanilla fragrans Family: Orchidaceae Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla Bean, French Vanilla, Vanilla Orchid Origin: South East México and Guatemala This leafy climbing orchid from hot, wet tropical America is grown for its pods which, when dried, become the commercial vanilla. The flowers are hand pollinated. The Aztec Indians in Mexico used Vanilla Pods to flavour their chocolate drink 'Xoco-latl'. Vanilla was introdused to Europe, and French started to grow it in thier African colonies plantations (hence the name Madagascar). Vanilla Pods are picked green when they have no scent. The lengthy curing process, which develops Vanilla's fragrant aroma, is one reason for its high cost. Good quality Vanilla Pods give an even better flavour than essence and can be re-used many times. Vanilla was believed to be a tonic for the brain. They need a large pot and support for climbing. If really happy, Vanilla planifolia apparently can exceed 100 feet in length in just a few years. They flower only when mature, which takes a few years. Propagated generally by cutting. Soil Requirements: Well drained, moist, fertile humus to start, plant becomes Epiphytic with age. Water Requirements: Water freely, less water in winter. See article about vanilla. Link to this plant: http://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/vanilla_planifolia.htm