Intriguing and alluring, vanilla is the world's most popular flavor.
Vanilla Planifolia, is a tropical vine belonging to the orchid family, and is the only orchid that produces an edible fruit. As one of the most labor-intensive agricultural products in the world — second only to saffron — the flowers must be hand pollinated within 8-12 hours of the bloom opening. Each bean matures at its own rate over nine months, and must be harvested by hand to ensure it is picked when it has reached its prime.
The vanilla trade is as captivating as the vanilla orchid itself. From Mexico to Madagascar, the story of vanilla is filled with romantic tales of ancient gods, fallen lovers, early conquests and exploration.
Vanilla beans only grow within 20 degrees north and south of the Equator. Madagascar and Indonesia produce the majority of the world's vanilla bean crops. Other vanilla-growing regions are China, Fiji, Guatemala, India, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Tahiti, Tonga and Uganda. These growing regions are susceptible to cyclones, tropical storms and political unrest, which can cause vanilla prices to fluctuate. The United States is the leading consumer of vanilla.
"Rodelle makes a gourmet quality gluten-free extract. I use Rodelle vanilla for all my baking needs - it simply is the best!"
Lydia Plunk
A Very Good Life
Vanilla Planifolia, is a tropical vine belonging to the orchid family, and is the only orchid that produces an edible fruit. As one of the most labor-intensive agricultural products in the world — second only to saffron — the flowers must be hand pollinated within 8-12 hours of the bloom opening. Each bean matures at its own rate over nine months, and must be harvested by hand to ensure it is picked when it has reached its prime.
The vanilla trade is as captivating as the vanilla orchid itself. From Mexico to Madagascar, the story of vanilla is filled with romantic tales of ancient gods, fallen lovers, early conquests and exploration.
Vanilla beans only grow within 20 degrees north and south of the Equator. Madagascar and Indonesia produce the majority of the world's vanilla bean crops. Other vanilla-growing regions are China, Fiji, Guatemala, India, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Tahiti, Tonga and Uganda. These growing regions are susceptible to cyclones, tropical storms and political unrest, which can cause vanilla prices to fluctuate. The United States is the leading consumer of vanilla.
"Rodelle makes a gourmet quality gluten-free extract. I use Rodelle vanilla for all my baking needs - it simply is the best!"
Lydia Plunk
A Very Good Life
Vanilla Planifolia orchid
