IVanilla/I beyond IVanilla planifolia/I and IVanilla/I × Itahitensis/I: Taxonomy and Historical Notes, Reproductive Biology, and Metabolites

Vanilla is a worldwide cherished condiment, and its volatile market is associated with the so-called “vanilla crisis”. Even though only two species (Vanilla planifolia and V. × tahitensis) are cultivated on a large scale for commercial purposes, the Vanilla genus is comprised of 140 species. The pre...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Plants (Basel) 2022-11, Vol.11 (23)
Main Authors: de Oliveira, Renatha Tavares, da Silva Oliveira, Joana Paula, Macedo, Andrea Furtado
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Chemical properties
Crops
Identification and classification
Metabolites
Physiological aspects
Vanilla beans
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Vanilla is a worldwide cherished condiment, and its volatile market is associated with the so-called “vanilla crisis”. Even though only two species (Vanilla planifolia and V. × tahitensis) are cultivated on a large scale for commercial purposes, the Vanilla genus is comprised of 140 species. The present review article discusses the facets of this crisis, and vanilla crop wild relatives (WRs) are showcased as alternatives to overcome them. Historical, taxonomic, and reproductive biology aspects of the group were covered. Emphasis was given to the metabolic characterization of the vanilla crop WRs, highlighting their main chemical classes and the potential flavor descriptors. Many of these species can produce important flavor compounds such as vanillin, vanillic acid, and acetovanillone, among others. Overall, this review compiles valuable information that can help unravel new chapters of the history of this treasured product by evidencing the biotechnological potential of vanilla crop WRs.
ISSN:2223-7747
2223-7747
DOI:10.3390/plants11233311