Golden Dewdrop, Pigeon Berry
duranta erecta
Also known as: ["Pigeon Berry","Golden Dewdrop","Duranta repens"]
Overview
A tropical shrub known for its vibrant yellow berries and delicate lavender flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Duranta |
| Botanical Name: | Duranta erecta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in warm climates, indoor pot in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry indoor conditions, rarely needed outdoors
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also use a cactus or succulent mix with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; can be cut back significantly to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain too much water; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning roots; fertilize after watering to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches; best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; repot carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 30°F (-1°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch; cover with frost cloth during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in prolonged high heat; soil may dry out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Duranta erecta. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological symptoms, with berries being especially hazardous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Duranta erecta can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. The berries pose a higher risk due to concentrated toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDuranta erecta contains diterpenoid alkaloids, primarily duranta, which can cause significant gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The berries are particularly toxic due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Duranta erecta toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Duranta erecta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and berries.
Q: How often should I water Duranta erecta?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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