Perennial
Vanilla Leaf
Carphephorus odoratissimus
Varieties We Carry
StandardCarphephorus odoratissimus
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size3-6 feet × 1-2 feet
About Vanilla Leaf
Vanillaleaf (Carphephorus odoratissimus) is a Florida native perennial wildflower of sandy pine flatwoods and moist sandhills, forming a basal rosette of strap-like, vanilla-scented leaves and sending up 3–6-foot stems topped with flat clusters of small purple flowers in late summer and fall. An excellent butterfly and pollinator plant for native and naturalistic gardens throughout Northeast Florida. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Light
Plant in full sun to part sun (at least 4–6 hours direct light daily). In Northeast Florida's pine flatwoods habitat, full sun produces the most robust basal rosettes and prolific late-summer bloom spikes.
Water
Water regularly during establishment and through hot summer months; once established, moderate drought tolerance improves. Does not tolerate standing water or prolonged inundation — ensure good drainage.
Soil & Fertilizer
Thrives in sandy, acidic, well-drained soils typical of NE Florida pine flatwoods. Fertilizer is rarely needed; native soils are preferred. Avoid rich or waterlogged soils.
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Common questions
Is Vanilla Leaf a good plant for St. Augustine?
Vanilla Leaf is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-6 feet × 1-2 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.