Guarana (Paullinia cupana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Guarana on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Sapindaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Guarana
Paullinia cupana, commonly known as Guarana, is a climbing shrub native to the Amazon basin, renowned for its reddish fruits containing caffeine-rich seeds. Its glossy, oval leaves, along with clusters of white flowers, make it an attractive plant for tropical gardens or as a potted specimen in cooler climates. It is ideal for creating an exotic focal point or adding a jungle touch to a bright indoor space.
Native range
Amazon Basin, South America
Care tips
Guarana requires full sun or bright partial shade to thrive, and regular watering to keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged. It prefers rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soils. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, so it benefits from frequent misting or being placed near a humidifier, especially indoors.
How to save a dying Guarana
- Warning signs
- Yellow/brown falling leaves, soft/dry stems, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Repot if waterlogged or very dry, removing damaged roots.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or lack of humidity drying out leaves quickly.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Guarana is resilient but needs humidity and good drainage.