Meanwhile, vanilla happens to be a climbing plant that is cultivated in plantations. For the vanilla plant to grow, it must be supported by a frame or be attached to another plant. Vanilla originated in Mexico, where the Aztecs made use of it to flavour their drinks and dishes. For an extended period, it could not be grown successfully in many countries as its cultivation is very demanding. However, after a way of hand-pollinating, the vanilla plant was discovered in 1841, it was cultivated in many countries around the world. Still, even today, vanilla is challenging to grow, making it an expensive spice.