Species
Duranta erectaGolden Dewdrop1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Duranta erecta 'Gold Nugget' is a dense, evergreen shrub known for its vibrant yellow foliage and clusters of small, violet-blue flowers.
This cultivar is particularly prized for its unusual golden-yellow leaves, providing a striking contrast in the garden.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
18 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Central America
Toxicity
Toxic to pets and humans
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-drained soil in full sun for vigorous growth.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root development.
- Water consistently during the first growing season to establish roots.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape and encourage bushiness.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and provide full sun for optimal flowering and foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
- Fertilize in spring and summer for healthy growth
- Monitor regularly for pests and treat early
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Refrain from using heavy, nitrogen-rich fertilizers
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Gold Nugget Duranta questions
What zones can Gold Nugget Duranta grow in?
Gold Nugget Duranta is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Gold Nugget Duranta deer resistant?
Yes — Gold Nugget Duranta is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Gold Nugget Duranta bloom?
Gold Nugget Duranta typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Gold Nugget Duranta need full sun?
Gold Nugget Duranta does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Gold Nugget Duranta drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gold Nugget Duranta handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Duranta to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Gold Nugget Duranta with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.