Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is a genus of Angiosperm Monocotyledonous plants belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It is a plant with a long, fleshy climbing stem, which clings to trees with aerial roots. The fruit is an elongated capsule and reaches 20 cm in 4 to 6 weeks. It is found in various parts of Central and South America. However, only in Mexico, due to the presence of a species of small bee, natural pollination can take place. In the rest of the world pollination is done artificially.
Unripe fruits are harvested as soon as they turn golden-green at the base. Fresh seeds have no scent. The characteristic aroma is the result of enzymatic action during special processing. Before the fruits are ripe, they are picked by hand and then, after being wet, they are fermented for a few days and then dried in the sun for several weeks. This is how they acquire: their aroma, chocolate color and oily texture.
