How to Grow Duranta Trees

Durantas are small trees that grow to a height of 15 to 20 feet in tropical and subtropical regions. They tolerate a wide range of soil textures and pH levels but require well-drained soil and lots of warm sun. Duranta blooms in two flushes: in the spring and fall. After flowering, it produces golden berries, which explain its nickname, "golden dew drop." Duranta trees are low maintenance garden ornamentals and do best when grown in zones 10 and 11 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

Fertilizer

Pruning equipment

Insecticidal soap

Dormant oil spray

Water the duranta tree to keep the soil slightly moist. Keep an eye on the soil during periods of drought and hot weather and supply an inch of water a week if the soil appears to be drying.

Fertilize the duranta tree in the spring with a 10-10-10 slow-release formula. Scatter it on the soil, 3 inches from the trunk, and spread it out to the dripline. Water to a depth of 10 inches after fertilizing.

Prune the duranta tree in early spring, prior to it producing new growth. Cut any stems or branches that are growing out of the shape you've chosen for the tree and cut out any dead wood. Durantas bloom on new wood, so feel free to prune it as much as is needed.

Inspect the duranta periodically during the summer for signs of insect infestations. Scale is a particular problem for the tree and is evidenced by brown bumps on leaves, twigs and berries. Opening the canopy of the tree when you prune helps discourage scale. Control infestations with insecticidal soap spray for the crawlers and dormant oil spray, applied in early spring, for the adults.

Duranta berries are poisonous.