Vanilla planifolia
Native range: Mexico and Central America
Known names: Vanilla Orchid, True Vanilla
Hardiness: Keep above 50°F
Mature Size: 20'+ long climbing vine with support
Light: Morning sun, diffused light; gentle morning sun
Water: Keep lightly moist; do not allow to fully dry
Soil: Well-draining, airy orchid mix (bark, coco coir, perlite); can be grown semi-epiphytic, standard potting soil with extra pumice or perlite
Dormancy Period: Growth slows during cooler season
Pet-Safe: Yes
Plant Size: 2.5" Pot
 
Vanilla planifolia is a climbing orchid with long, flat, succulent green stems that function much like vines, often reaching many feet in length and will require many feet in length before flower production. Its leaves are thick, fleshy, and elliptical to lanceolate, typically 2–6 inches long and a rich medium to dark green when healthy. The plant produces aerial roots along its stems that help it cling to supports as it grows upward.