vanilla planifolia
Syn. Myrobroma fragans, Vanilla fragans

Names: Vanilla, vanilla, vainillas, vaniy, good vanilla, Bourbon vanilla,  …

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FAMILY

ORCHIDACEAE

 

ETYMOLOGY

Vanilla comes from the Latin "  vagina  », then from Spanish «  vain, vain  », small sheath, compared to the fruit. Planifolia means "having flat leaves".

 

ORIGIN

Tropical America.

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HABITAT

Tropical rainforest.

 

DESCRIPTION

Magnificent fast-growing epiphytic orchid liana that can exceed 20m . The leaves are thick and shiny. It develops along a support , often consisting of a living tree trunk. This tutor should be chosen carefully.

It originates from the West Indies, Central America and southern Mexico.

Flowering takes place in summer or autumn in temperate climates, and in the dry season in tropical climates (February to June). The fruit is the famous vanilla pod.

 

MULTIPLICATION

Cuttings.
 

CULTURE AND MAINTENANCE

In the case of cultivation in a temperate environment or in a greenhouse, watering and vaporization must be quite abundant in summer and autumn. Vanilla requires a minimum rainfall of 2000 mm/year, a light and permeable soil, rich in humus . It develops very strongly when placed in the shade, it needs sun to start flowering. You can place it in your bathroom, it will appreciate the ambient humidity and will grow quickly.

For a pot culture , roll up the vine and place it on a pot filled with potting soil, coconut peat, charcoal and a few dry leaves.

Place a stake in its center and water frequently, the vine will grow on it by itself. If you notice any drying out, position a bell to increase the ambient humidity.

A regular organic amendment is recommended or the addition of dry leaves.

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USES

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ORNAMENTAL USE

Very nice indoor plant. Can be planted in isolated subject or in undergrowth.

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FOOD USE

Spice, drinks.

 

OTHER USES

Perfumery, massage oil, punch.

 

ANECDOTES

Vanilla goes very well with cocoa and pumpkin.

Vanilla is the only orchid that really has economic importance, it is the second most expensive spice.

 

RECIPE

Vanilla sugar
Mix 2 cups of sugar with a vanilla pod, put in a jar and leave for six weeks.

Vanilla extract

Put a vanilla pod in 3/4 cup of rum or vodka in a jar, leave for 7 weeks.

vanilla syrup

Put cane sugar with water and a vanilla pod in a saucepan and cook for 5min.

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