Vanilla Plant, Vanillaleaf

Trilisa odoratissima

Physical Characteristics

Trilisa odoratissima is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - North Carolina to Florida, west to Missouri.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The leaves are used as a flavouring[72], they have the scent of vanilla[1, 2]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Malaria The leaves are demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic and tonic[222]. They are a folk remedy for coughs, malaria and neuroses[222]. The leaves are high in coumarins and have been experimentally effective in the treatment of high-protein oedema[222]. Some caution is advised, see notes above on toxicity.

Known Hazards

The plant contains coumarins[222], this is what gives it the scent of newly mown hay. When used internally, especially from dried plants, it can act to prevent the blood from co-aggulating[13]. Coumarins are implicated in liver disease and haemorrhage[222].