Guarana
paullinia cupana
Also known as: ["Brazilian cocoa","guaranine","Paullinia sorbilis"]
Overview
A climbing plant native to the Amazon basin, known for its seeds rich in caffeine and used traditionally as a stimulant.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Paullinia |
| Botanical Name: | Paullinia cupana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or large indoor container with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining soil or water.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, remove crossing or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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 fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
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, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to develop or drop prematurely.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are highly sensitive to caffeine and other stimulants present in Paullinia cupana. Even small amounts can cause mild to moderate toxicity, with effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed in excessive amounts
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs are sensitive to caffeine and other stimulants found in Paullinia cupana. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, affecting the central nervous system and cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed in excessive amounts
Humans
Slightly ToxicPaullinia cupana, commonly known as guarana, contains caffeine and other xanthines, which can lead to mild to moderate toxicity when consumed in large quantities. The physiological effects are primarily due to the stimulant properties of caffeine, which can overstimulate the central nervous system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed in excessive amounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is guarana safe for human consumption?
A: Guarana is generally safe in moderation but can be mildly toxic if consumed in excessive amounts due to its high caffeine content.
Q: How is guarana typically used?
A: Guarana seeds are often ground into a powder and used in beverages, supplements, and traditional medicine for their stimulant properties.
Q: Does guarana require special care when grown?
A: Guarana prefers warm, humid conditions and well-drained soil, making it moderately challenging to cultivate outside its native habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
