Vanilla dilloniana (Leafless Vanilla Orchid)

Vanilla dilloniana, commonly known as Dillon's Vanilla, is distributed throughout the West Indies and had been reported on the banks of the Miami River in South Florida. Shoots form a multi-branched, leafless vine that can reach lengths up to 15 ft. The light green flowers are similar to Vanilla barbellata but the petals and sepals are longer and the fluted lip is a deep reddish-purple with a yellow crest. This orchid grows in areas with a limestone substrate, such as coastal berms and hardwood hammocks.

Vanilla dilloniana is considered vulnerable across its range and endangered in Florida. Although this species may be extirpated in Florida, pieces of plants from the original colony have been shared and may be found in local collections.

See the Video of Robert Riefer's unique specimen, the biggest potted specimen in the World, grown in 100 gal pot, originated in 1927, awarded in 2011 with CHM (Certificate of Horticultural Merit) by American Orchid Society.