Vanilla planifolia variegada

 Vanilla planifolia variegada is a climbing orchid valued for its bold, variegated leaves with creamy-yellow or white stripes on deep green. This vigorous vine serves as both an ornamental plant and a potential vanilla bean producer when mature.

• Light: Prefers bright, filtered light or partial shade to prevent leaf burn. Adequate light is necessary to maintain the striking variegation. Avoid direct, harsh midday sun.
• Temperature: Requires warm to hot conditions year-round. Day temperatures should be 70-86°F (21-30°C). Night temperatures should not drop below 60°F (16°C).
• Humidity: Needs high humidity, ideally 70% to 80%. Ensure constant air circulation to prevent disease, balancing it with the high humidity requirement.
• Watering: Keep the growing medium consistently moist but never soggy. Allow the top layer to dry slightly before watering again. This vining plant requires a sturdy support (like a moss pole or trellis) to climb.

Additional Notes

Mature plants (vines several feet long) produce clusters of fragrant, greenish-yellow flowers. Each flower lasts only one day and requires hand-pollination to produce the renowned vanilla bean pods. The highly ornamental, variegated leaves make this plant an attractive collector's item even when not in bloom.