Orchid Vanilla Bean 8"

Vanilla Bean Orchid                  

Vanilla planifolia

Grow REAL vanilla! True vanilla has flavor and fragrance far superior and complex compared to extracts (which come from beavers). The fruit, or “beans” of the flowers have a long history of culinary use and were once only available to the wealthiest members of society. 

Per pound, premium grade Vanilla beans are still extraordinarily expensive. 

Native to rainforests in Mexico and Belize, these large vining epiphytes climb trees in the wild but can be trained onto all manner of poles and trellises. They are happiest in high humidity (around 80% RH) and prefer daytime temperatures of 80-95F and nighttime temperatures of 50-70F. Good air circulation will help prevent disease. A sunroom or greenhouse would be an ideal location.

Have patience, they must grow to a large size (at least 10’ long) before they start blooming in lovely fragrant clusters. Blooms only last for one day, so that is your chance to hand-pollinate using a cotton swab or chopstick the morning of their bloom. It takes pods at least 4-6 months to mature, and the beans must be processed. 

This is an excellent plant for those excited by the challenge of growing this incredible edible orchid, which is now endangered in the wild. 

Enjoy the rare delight of cooking with your own homegrown vanilla!

Additional Care instructions: Bright indirect light, allow soil to dry moderately before watering. Fertilize every other watering during growing months. Use liquid orchid fertilizer. Soil: Orchid mix.