Vanilla planifolia
TAXONOMY
FamilyOrchidaceae
GenusVanilla
Zone11
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Vanilla planifolia, commonly known as the vanilla orchid, is a species of vanilla orchid native to Mexico and Central America. It is a tropical climbing vine that produces the vanilla bean, which is widely used for flavoring. The plant thrives in wet tropical climates and requires a support structure to climb. It is a member of the Orchidaceae family and the genus Vanilla.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Epidendrum Rubrum
Myrobroma Fragrans
Notylia Sativa
Notylia Sylvestris
Bourbon vanilla
Notylia planifolia
Vanilla
Vanilla aromatica
Vanilla bampsiana
Vanilla duckei
Vanilla fragrans
Vanilla orchid
Vanilla planifolia var. angusta
Vanilla rubra
Vanilla sativa
Vanilla sylvestris
Vanilla viridiflora
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (12 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Vanilla planifolia requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. It prefers warm temperatures and should be kept in a consistently moist environment. Regular watering is essential, but the plant should not be waterlogged. It is important to provide a support structure for the vine to climb.Soil
The vanilla orchid prefers a well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of orchid bark, peat, and perlite can provide the ideal growing medium. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Vanilla planifolia benefits from regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 N-P-K formula. Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and development.Repotting
Repot the vanilla orchid every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Choose a slightly larger pot and refresh the growing medium. Be gentle with the roots, as they can be delicate.Propagation
Vanilla planifolia can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings with at least three nodes and plant them in a moist, well-draining medium. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to manage the growth of the vanilla orchid. Trim back any dead or damaged stems and control the length of the vine to encourage bushier growth. Prune after the flowering period to avoid cutting off potential flower spikes.Toxicity
Vanilla planifolia is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the unprocessed vanilla bean can be mildly irritating if ingested in large quantities.Additional
Vanilla planifolia requires patience and careful attention to thrive, especially in non-tropical environments. Providing a humid environment and consistent care will help ensure the plant's success.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
