How to Grow and Care for Golden Dewdrop

The Golden Dewdrop (Duranta erecta) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub. It produces clusters of flowers, which can be purple, blue, or white, often blooming for months. Following the flowers, the plant develops cascades of yellow-orange berries. These berries hang in drooping clusters, resembling grapes, and can provide color into the winter. The foliage is a bright, shiny green.

Golden Dewdrop Growing Conditions

Light

For the most abundant flowers and fruit, Golden Dewdrop should be planted in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. While it can survive in partial shade, the plant will produce fewer blossoms. It may also develop a more open, less compact growth habit in lower light.

Soil

This plant thrives in fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter to prevent waterlogging. Golden Dewdrop is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy soils, but performs best in a loamy mixture. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 5.6 to 7.5.

Water

Consistent moisture is beneficial during the growing season, and the soil should be kept moist but not saturated. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Once the plant is well-established, it develops a moderate tolerance for drought. Watering at the base of the plant is recommended to avoid potential fungal issues on the leaves.

Temperature and Humidity

Native to the tropical Americas, Golden Dewdrop flourishes in warm, humid conditions. It is best suited for outdoor, year-round growth in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11, where it grows as an evergreen shrub or small tree. Gardeners in colder regions can grow it as an annual or in containers that can be moved indoors during winter.

Fertilizer

Applying a balanced fertilizer can encourage more robust growth and flowering. A general-purpose, slow-release fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio, such as 10-10-10, can be applied during the spring and summer. Fertilize every four to six weeks during this period to support its fast growth.

Pruning Golden Dewdrop

The sprawling growth habit of Golden Dewdrop makes regular pruning necessary. Pruning helps control its size, maintain a desired shape, and encourage denser foliage and more flowers. An unpruned plant can become leggy with long, arching branches that appear untidy. This shaping is useful when growing it as a hedge or container specimen.

The best time for a significant pruning is late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This allows you to reshape the plant and remove cold-damaged branches without sacrificing upcoming blooms. Lighter trimming can be done as needed throughout the growing season to keep the plant neat. Wear gloves when pruning, as some varieties have thorns and the sap may cause skin irritation.

Common Pests and Problems

Golden Dewdrop is a hardy plant with no serious insect or disease issues. However, watch for common sap-sucking pests such as whiteflies, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be managed with applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Caterpillars may also occasionally feed on the leaves.

A primary concern for gardeners is a lack of flowering, which is most often linked to insufficient sunlight. If a plant that once bloomed well has declined, assess whether surrounding trees or structures have begun to cast more shade. Another potential issue, root rot, can occur in poorly drained, waterlogged soils.

Toxicity of Golden Dewdrop

It is important to be aware of this plant’s toxicity. Both the leaves and berries of the Golden Dewdrop are poisonous if ingested. The bright, golden appearance of the berries can be attractive to children and pets. Ingesting these plant parts is harmful to humans, dogs, cats, and other animals. While birds eat the berries without issue, they are not safe for domestic animals, so place the plant with this in mind, especially in areas frequented by children and pets.