Vanilla planifolia is an evergreen climbing vine that can grow along the ground or climb trees. In some cases, it grows as an epiphyte—anchoring itself without rooting in soil. When rooted terrestrially, it develops branched roots with fine hairs that form associations with mycorrhizal fungi.

vanilla planifolia beans

In the wild, the vine commonly reaches lengths of 15 meters, and in favorable conditions it may extend up to 30 meters. Its growth habit varies with light: in full shade, the vine rarely branches, but under sunlight it produces multiple branches. The younger sections of the vine, firmly attached to their support, often form a distinctive zig-zag pattern, with each node angled at about 120°.

To climb trees and surfaces, Vanilla planifolia produces thick, fleshy aerial roots from its nodes. These aerial roots, present mainly on younger parts of the vine, almost never branch; as the plant matures, older vines hang freely down through the canopy toward the forest floor.

Each node opposite the root produces a single, flat, fleshy leaf. When fully grown, these glossy, bright green leaves measure 8–25 cm long and 2–8 cm wide, with a lanceolate to oval shape and a pointed tip. Undamaged leaves typically remain on the vine for three to four years.

Indonesian planifolia is renowned for its bold, creamy flavor with subtle woody and smoky undertones, making it particularly popular in ice cream, chocolate, bakery goods, and premium beverages.

Specifications

The first formal scientific description of Vanilla planifolia was published by botanist Henry Charles Andrews in the eighth volume of The Botanist’s Repository. In his account, Andrews credited Charles Plumier, who had previously described the plant in 1703 as the third recognized species of the genus Vanilla. Andrews’ illustration for the publication was based on a specimen that had flowered in the hothouse of Charles Greville, a noted plant collector of the time.

  • Botanical Name: Vanilla planifolia
  • Common Names: Bourbon vanilla, Madagascar vanilla, Indonesian vanilla
  • Origin: Native to Mexico; cultivated in Indonesia, Madagascar, Uganda, and other tropical regions
  • Appearance: Long, slender, dark brown to black beans (pods), 12–20 cm in length
  • Moisture Content: 25–35% (for gourmet-grade cured beans)
  • Vanillin Content: 1.6% – 2.4% (varies by region and curing process)
  • Aroma & Flavor Profile: Sweet, creamy, full-bodied, with notes of caramel, wood, and smoke
  • Forms Available:
    • Whole dried beans (pods)
    • Vanilla powder
    • Vanilla extract
    • Vanilla paste
  • Uses: Baking, desserts, beverages, chocolate, ice cream, perfumery, aromatherapy

Indonesian Vanilla Planifolia

Indonesia is one of the world’s largest producers of Vanilla Planifolia, a variety celebrated for its bold aroma, complex flavor profile, and exceptional quality. At Emas Vanilla, we take pride in sourcing and delivering premium Indonesian Planifolia vanilla, cultivated in fertile volcanic soils and nurtured by the country’s tropical climate—conditions that make our vanilla truly one-of-a-kind.

What Makes Indonesian Planifolia Vanilla Special?

  • Rich, Robust Flavor – Known for its deep, creamy, and sweet notes balanced with hints of woodiness and spice. Perfect for gourmet desserts, premium beverages, and artisanal creations.
  • High Vanillin Content – Indonesian Planifolia beans are prized for their naturally high vanillin levels, giving them a powerful aroma and long-lasting flavor.
  • Sustainably Cultivated – Grown by skilled local farmers who hand-pollinate, cure, and dry each bean with care, following traditional methods passed down through generations.
  • Versatile Applications – From whole dried beans to powder and extracts, Planifolia vanilla is ideal for bakeries, chocolatiers, ice cream makers, beverage companies, and culinary professionals seeking premium ingredients.

Why Choose Emas Vanilla’s Indonesian Planifolia?

  • Premium Quality – Carefully selected beans, perfectly cured to maximize flavor and aroma.
  • Authenticity Guaranteed – 100% natural, free from synthetic additives or artificial flavoring.
  • Competitive Pricing – Offering world-class vanilla at fair, market-driven prices.
  • Trusted Source – As a direct supplier from Indonesia, we ensure transparency, traceability, and consistency in every shipment.

Elevate Your Creations with Emas Vanilla

Whether you are a chef, chocolatier, or food & beverage innovator, our Indonesian Planifolia vanilla adds depth, richness, and sophistication to every recipe. From indulgent desserts and fine pastries to signature ice creams and specialty drinks, let the unique character of Indonesian vanilla inspire your creations.

Discover the taste of excellence with Emas Vanilla’s Planifolia — a true gift from Indonesia’s soil to the world.