Vanilla Leaf
Carphephorus odoratissimus
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 16, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
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
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
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 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.
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.
Similar needs
Atamasco Lily
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Common Blue Violet
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, acidic, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Foxglove
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, acidic, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Stokes Aster
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Tropical Sage
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Basswood
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, acidic, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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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.