Guanabana
vismia cayennensis
Also known as: ["Guanabana","Vismia"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to South America, known for its ornamental value and potential medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Genus: | Vismia |
| Botanical Name: | Vismia cayennensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense afternoon sun; place near east or north-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rich, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growing season (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better flowering.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/weak stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced transpiration.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; use a space heater if needed; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest the berries of Vismia cayennensis. The toxic compounds can cause irritation to the stomach and intestines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Vismia cayennensis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if consumed. The compounds present may irritate the digestive system, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVismia cayennensis berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vismia cayennensis toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is currently unknown.
Q: What are the care requirements for Vismia cayennensis?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil, partial shade, and regular watering.
Q: Does Vismia cayennensis have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses suggest potential medicinal properties, but scientific validation is limited.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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