Skyflower, Golden Dewdrops, Duranta (Duranta Repens, Duranta Erecta)
Duranta, usually a large, fast-growing, multi-stemmed shrub, has several common names and over 17 varieties worldwide. The branches are often droopy and vinelike, and the stems may have sharp spines. It can be trained as a small tree or left to grow as a large shrub or bush. Duranta Repens or Erecta, with 1-2 inch leaves and growing to 8-15 feet tall, are the most common in Southern CA, but there is also Duranta stenostachya, a larger-leaved species (4 inches long) called Brazilian Skyflower. A new cultivar is the yellow duranta, which is only 2-3 feet tall. Other common names are Pigeon-berry and Honey drops. Typically, there are full clusters of fragrant pale-blue, lavender, purple or even white flowers on the ends of the stems, reminding the viewer of wisteria. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them. If the flowers have a colored stripe in the center, it is from the small-leaf Duranta Repens species. Some other varieties have a white ruffled rim on the outer edge of the flower. Flowers are quickly followed by bunches of golden-orange berries, popular with birds. Flowers and fruit are often found on the plant simultaneously.
Be Aware the berries are poisonous to animals and humans!
Drought tolerant once established and can flourish with low water, moderate water or regular water, but prefers good drainage if you are watering more. Duranta loves full sun most, but tolerates part sun, or part shade. Generally the foliage is light green, but some varieties have green and white variegated leaves, golden yellow leaves, or yellow variegated leaves. The plants with variegated leaves do better in places with some shade.
If used as a mounding bush, definitely give it a 6-foot spacing from foundations and other plants, or you'll spend too much time pruning it back.
And just for fun, Durantas can be trained as bonsai and can be amazing topiaries. The tallest topiary in the World was 61 feet, created by a horticulturalist in India from a Duranta!
Larger sizes are available (5 gallon and 15 gallon or larger can be ordered - please email your questions and we will furnish you with a specific price quote.)
Free delivery in Orange County only. We do not ship plants outside Southern California due to weather, shipping service handling, and cost considerations.