The seed pods from this vining orchid, also known as vanilla beans, are used to create the sweet spice known around the world. The extract of this plant is commonly used in baking and its essential oils are often an important ingredient for creating botanically based perfumes.
Do orchids make vanilla?
Vanilla is a spice derived from orchids of the genus Vanilla, primarily obtained from pods of the Mexican species, flat-leaved vanilla (V. planifolia). Pollination is required to make the plants produce the fruit from which the vanilla spice is obtained.
Leafless vanilla or V. aphylla is a vanilla orchid species native to Southeast Asia. It is cultivated in Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Myanmar, and Singapore. The plants produce clusters of three to four flowers on a short inflorescence. They bloom in late spring, summer, and fall.
While it’s a challenge to coax this plant into flowering and producing the seeds from which vanilla is harvested, the glossy green vine is an attractive plant on its own. Like many orchids, vanilla bean orchid is a tropical species that requires high temperatures and humidity to thrive.
Vanilla bean orchid (Vanilla plantifolia) is often known simply as “vanilla” because the seed pods from this plant are the source of the natural vanilla flavoring used widely in desserts and beverages. While it’s a challenge to coax this plant into flowering and producing the seeds from which vanilla is harvested, the glossy green vine is an attractive plant on its own.
How do you take care of a vanilla orchid?
Fertilize your Vanilla orchid plant regularly, every couple of weeks with well-balanced orchid fertilizer. If you’re growing them for the vanilla pods and for consumption, it’s better to search for an organic option. Vanilla orchid plants thrive in bright, filtered light and high humidity.
This plant is normally propagated through cuttings : Snip a segment of vine that has at least six growing nodes on it. Remove the two lowest leaves on the cutting. Fill a small flower pot with either moist sphagnum moss or a mixture of equal parts orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite.
Can you grow vanilla orchids in a greenhouse?
The vanilla orchid is not an easy plant to grow for beginners. Some previous success with orchid growing is beneficial. A greenhouse is also highly desirable, especially for gardeners who don’t live in a frost-free climate.
How to grow your own vanilla?
You’ll need to purchase a vanilla bean plant from a reputable grower. Hopefully you were able to purchase a healthy vanilla bean plant that is 3-5 years old. A couple extra items to pay attention too are: support your vanilla bean plant, create the perfect growing environment, and water your vanilla bean plant.