Vanilla phalaenopsis is the only truly native Vanilla species of the Seychelles where it is also endemic. It is very closely related to Vanilla roscheri and Vanilla madagascariensis with some people claiming al three belong to one single species. For now I will keep these separate.
In the Seychelles it is a common plant found mostly in rocky areas (Glacis) from sea level to the higher hills. Because it has very reduced leaves and succulent stems can survive periods of drought and therefore is sometimes found in places where no other plant can survive.