Carphephorus odoratissimus

Also known as Deer's Tongue, Carolina Vanilla, Vanilla Plant

Vanillaleaf forms a basal rosette of smooth, thick leaves that release a rich vanilla aroma when dried, owing to high coumarin levels. Stiff, erect stems emerge in late summer, topped with broad, flat clusters of vibrant magenta flower heads that attract butterflies and native bees. Native to southeastern coastal plain ecosystems, it relies on periodic low-intensity fires to keep woody plants from shading out its open pine savanna habitat.