Vanilla planifolia aka Bourbon Vanilla

Vanilla planifolia is the orchid that supplies most natural vanilla. It is an evergreen vine in the orchid family. Its native range runs from southern Mexico to northern Brazil. It grows in warm, wet forests, often climbing trees. Growers now raise it in many tropical countries. Gardeners also grow it for its leaves, flowers, and pods.

Indoor plants stay much smaller than vines in tropical forests. One garden listing gives a height of 10 feet [3.05 metres]. It gives a spread of 6 feet [1.83 metres]. Other sources describe vines 16–49 feet [5–15 metres] long. Tropical vines can exceed 100 feet [30.5 metres]. The green stems are fleshy and last for many years. Aerial roots grow from stem nodes and grip trees. The plant can root in soil or grow above it. Its thick, bright green leaves have pointed tips. Their shapes range from oval to narrow and tapering.

The large, waxy flowers have greenish cream sepals and pale yellow petals. They have a scent, and each bloom lasts one day. One petal forms a lip around the flower's central column. Chicago Botanic Garden lists bloom from March through June. New cuttings may take two or three years to flower. Bees pollinate flowers in the plant's native habitat. Growers hand-pollinate flowers to secure a crop of pods. A barrier within the flower prevents pollen from reaching its own stigma unaided. The long fruit capsules hold many small, dark seeds. Curing the pods develops the vanilla used in food.

This vine needs warmth, humid air, and a firm support. It cannot bear frost and suits USDA zones 10–11. Bright shade suits it, with some early morning sun. Give it fertile soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but avoid soggy roots. Regular watering, daily misting, and light feeding support growth. Protect the vine from wind. It prefers soil from mildly acid to neutral. Shorter dry spells can help bring vines into flower. Raising pods takes more work than growing a leafy plant.

The cured pods flavor cakes, sweets, ice cream, and other foods. Makers also use them in soaps and perfumes. Vanilla extracts add flavor to some medicines. Traditional uses include remedies for fever and spasms. These reports do not establish that such treatments work. Fungal rot can trouble the plant. Spider mites and mealybugs may also attack it. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals. Handling it can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Its edible pods do not mean all plant parts are safe.