VANILLA 131 



fruit has a uniform blackish chocolate color, until the curer determines 

 the process finished and the fruit ready for packing. 

 ARTIFICIAL POLLENIZATION OR FECUNDATION. In Mexico and Guinea 

 fertilization is left to natural influences, as by insects and by the wind; 

 but in Reunion (Bourbon) artificial fecundation is resorted to because 

 there is a total lack of the necessary insect life. Pollenization consists 

 in holding the flower with the thumb and finger of the left hand, 



FIG. 50.* Vanilla planifolia Branch showing leaf and flowers. 



and, with a splinter of wood or bamboo held in the right hand, rais- 

 ing up the labellum between the pollen and the stigma, then with the 

 forefinger of the left hand pressing the former down upon the latter. 

 Transversely are seen several rib-like processes extending inward. 

 These are the placentae which support the numerous minute seeds. 

 Projecting into the central cavity and borne on the inner cell-wall 

 are unicellular papillose hairs; these secrete oil and resin, which 

 elaborate vanillin. 



DESCRIPTION OF DRUG. Linear, somewhat triangularly compressed pods 

 from 150 to 250 mm. (6 to 10 in.) long, 8 mm. (% in.) thick, attenuated 



