Contents
Description
Duranta Mutisii, also known as the Golden Dewdrop, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that is native to South America. It belongs to the Verbenaceae family and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and unique features. The plant produces showy clusters of blue-purple flowers and has bright yellow fruits that resemble berries. These fruits are edible but not commonly consumed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Duranta |
Appearance
The Duranta Mutisii plant grows up to 10 feet in height and spreads about 6 feet wide. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with small, glossy green leaves that are about 2-3 inches long. The leaves are arranged in an opposite pattern and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant produces showy clusters of blue-purple flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers appear in late summer to early fall and are followed by bright yellow fruits that resemble berries. The fruits are about 0.5 inches in diameter and are not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
Duranta Mutisii is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Duranta Mutisii plant is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
The Duranta Mutisii plant is native to South America and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground, and is often used as a hedge or border plant due to its dense growth habit.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Duranta Mutisii a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Duranta Mutisii is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 2 feet per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Can Duranta Mutisii grow in shade?
A: Yes, Duranta Mutisii can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Q: How often should I fertilize Duranta Mutisii?
A: Fertilize Duranta Mutisii once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Duranta Mutisii in a container?
A: Yes, Duranta Mutisii can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Related Plants
- Duranta erecta
- Duranta repens
- Duranta stenostachya
References
- Flowers of India. (n.d.). Duranta mutisii. Retrieved from https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Golden%20Dewdrop.html
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Duranta care – Tips on growing Duranta plants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/duranta/care-of-duranta-plants.htm
- Morton, J. F. (1981). Atlas of medicinal plants of Middle America: Bahamas to Yucatan. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher.
