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Image shows the nice foliage variegation of
Vanilla planifolia 'Variegata' or
Variegated Vanilla Orchid or
Vanilla fragrans
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Vanilla planifolia 'Variegata'
(Variegated Vanilla Orchid,
Variegated
Vanilla fragrans) |
Family: Orchidaceae (Orchid)
Origin: Native to Mexico, northern South America, West Indies
Light: Medium-high light
Height: Can reach 30'
Spacing: 4-6"
Blooms: Fragrant, 2" across, chartreuse, partly opened, late Spring-Summer
Foliage: Variegated, irregular yellow and green stripes, thick, glossy, flat, smooth
Seedpod: 6-9" long, yellowish-green bean-like pods turn dark brown when
ripe
Soil: Well-drained, moist, (ph: 6.6-7.5, neutral)
Water: Regular, rainwater would be perfect
Propagation: Stem cuttings (place cuttings 1-2 weeks in a shady
area before planting)
Uses: Container, pole, up a tree, indoor
Comments:
Vanilla planifolia 'Variegata' or Variegated
Vanilla Orchid or
Variegated Vanilla fragrans
is a fast
growing tropical perennial climber that produces edible fruits.
From May through August, a mature plant over 10 feet produces beautiful
yellowish-green flowers it produces fragrant chartreuse flowers that are
partly opened.
Vanilla planifolia 'Variegata' is easily propagated from stem
cuttings taken at the nodes where the aerial root show. It
performs well ideally at
temperatures between mid-70's to high 80's and enjoys high humidity.
In its conducive environment,
Variegated
Vanilla
Orchid
can climb as high as 30 feet
by means of its aerial roots often up barks of trees, poles, shrubs or
rocks. The bean-like
fruits which has to be harvested before it fully ripens. Vanilla
planifolia 'Variegata' beans
are fragrant and the spice Vanilla Essence is is made from this
plant; it is an expensisve spice due to
its long process from plant to manufactured product. Vanilla is
commonly used in baking, perfumery and aromatherapy.
In
colder areas,
Variegated
Vanilla fragrans
does not
tolerate frost and has to be brought indoors for the Winter. This
plant is sterile and has to be hand pollinated.
Vanilla planifolia 'Variegata' is a beautiful plant to have and does not
demand much attention.
Interestingly, its
name Vanilla comes from the Spanish word for the spice Vanialla which
means little pod' while 'planifolia' is a Latin word for
'flat-leaved'.
USDA Hardiness Zones : 10-11 |