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Description
Duranta Erecta, also known as Golden Dewdrop or Pigeon Berry, is a species of flowering shrub native to tropical regions of the Americas. It belongs to the Verbenaceae family, which includes over 1000 species of plants. Duranta Erecta is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but typically reaches a height of 6-8 feet in cultivation. The plant produces small, blue, and white flowers that bloom in clusters and are followed by yellow or orange berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————–|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Lamiales|| Family| Verbenaceae|| Genus| Duranta|| Species| Erecta|
Appearance
Duranta Erecta has glossy, green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern on the stem and are approximately 2-4 inches long. The plant produces small, trumpet-shaped flowers that are blue or white in color and bloom in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, round berries that are yellow or orange in color and contain seeds. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but typically reaches a height of 6-8 feet in cultivation.
Care Guide
Duranta Erecta is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Duranta Erecta:- Water: Duranta Erecta prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Duranta Erecta once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Duranta Erecta prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Add organic matter to the soil to improve its quality.- Sunlight: Duranta Erecta prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Duranta Erecta is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Duranta Erecta is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites- Mealybugs- Scale insects- Whiteflies- Leaf spot- Powdery mildewTo prevent these problems, make sure your plant is well-watered and fertilized, and remove any infected leaves or branches as soon as possible.
Habitat
Duranta Erecta is native to tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Duranta Erecta poisonous?A: Yes, all parts of Duranta Erecta are poisonous if ingested.Q: Can Duranta Erecta be grown in containers?A: Yes, Duranta Erecta can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.Q: How often should I prune my Duranta Erecta?A: Prune your Duranta Erecta in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune it throughout the growing season to maintain its shape.Q: How do I propagate Duranta Erecta?A: Duranta Erecta can be propagated by taking stem cuttings or by layering.
Related Plants
– Duranta Repens- Duranta Stenostachya- Duranta Plumieri
References
– “Duranta Erecta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292821.- “Duranta Erecta.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp099. – “Duranta Erecta.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/duranta-erecta-plant-profile-4772493.
