Golden Dewdrop Plant

Latin Name	Observation date	Location
Duranta Erecta	21st August 2025	College of Nursing Science Amachara, Nigeria.

Introduction:

Duranta erecta, which is also known as golden dewdrop, pigeon berry, or skyflower, is a species of flowering shrub belonging to the Verbena family (Verbenaceae). They are Native to Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean, it's widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical regions globally, having naturalized in many areas.

Description and Characteristics:

Duranta erecta is an evergreen, sprawling shrub, that sometimes grows into a small tree. It therefore exhibits a somewhat weeping habit, reaching heights of 10-20 feet in tropical climates, but remaining smaller (2-4 feet) in colder areas where it's grown as an annual, while mature plants often develop thorns. The showy flower clusters are typically light blue to purple, appearing from summer to fall. These are followed by clusters of yellow-orange, round fruits. It's important to note that these fruits are toxic to humans and dogs.

Cultivation and Care:

They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. While it prefers a full sun for optimal flowering, and tolerates partial shade. In colder climates, it is often grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors during winter.

Pruning is often recommended to maintain a compact shape. The plant is relatively pest and disease resistant, although whiteflies can be a concern either.

Varieties and Uses:

Several cultivars exist which includes
i.)Alba(white flowers).
ii.)Aurea(yellow foliage).
iii.)Cuban Gold.
iv.)Sapphire Showers(vivid violet blooms with white edges).
v.)Variegata.

Duranta erecta is commonly used in;
1.) Landscaping as a hedge, specimen plant or border plant, in warmer climates.
2.) It can be trained as a small tree.
3.) In colder regions, it's grown as an annual, in containers, or as a houseplant.

Toxicity:

It is important to note that the fruits of Duranta erecta are poisonous and can be fatal if ingested by humans or animals. The plant contains therefore contain isoquinoline, hydrocyanic acid, andsaponin glycoside.

Conclusion:

Duranta erecta is a visually appealing and relatively easy-to-grow plant, which makes it a popular choice for gardens and very suitable in climates. However, its toxicity must be equally considered, most especially if children or pets are present. Careful plan and awareness of its poisonous nature are crucial for safe and successful cultivation.

Thank you!!..

Link to originl content	https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/307925238
Photograph	@favouright
Device	Samsung galaxy S7
Camera	Samsung SM G930F
ISO	200
Focal length	4.20 mm
Location	Inside College of Nursing Science Amachara, Umuahia, Abia state.