Skyflower
Scientific name: Duranta erecta
POWO Status: Shrub or Tree
IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern
GPS Location: 17° 42′ 53.90″ N, 64° 49′ 48.64″ W
Observations:
Phenological Markers – Duranta erecta
Common Name: Golden Dewdrop, Skyflower, Pigeon Berry
Scientific Name: Duranta erecta L.
Family: Verbenaceae
Leaf Phenology
- Leaf Type: Simple, opposite or whorled, ovate to elliptic, with serrated or entire margins; bright to dark green
- Evergreen/Semi-deciduous: Evergreen in tropical climates; may drop some leaves in cooler or dry periods
- Leaf Flush: New growth appears year-round, often more vigorous after pruning or rainfall
- Senescence: Occasional yellowing and drop of older leaves; partial defoliation may occur under drought or cold stress
Flowering
- Inflorescence: Long, drooping or upright racemes of small, violet-blue to lavender (sometimes white) tubular flowers with five lobes
- Blooming Period: Year-round in warm climates, with peak blooming in late spring through fall
- Pollinators: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Phenological Indicator: Abundant flower spikes on branch tips; often present alongside developing fruits
Fruiting
- Fruit Type: Small, round, yellow to orange berries borne in hanging clusters
- Fruit Development: Begins after flowering; fruit ripens over several weeks
- Dispersal: Primarily birds; fruit is mildly toxic to humans
- Phenological Indicator: Visible yellow/orange fruit clusters often hanging below or alongside flowers
Suggested Photo Angles
- Full shrub or small tree form (can be sprawling or upright)
- Close-up of flower racemes
- Fruit clusters hanging from branches
- Leaf detail, including new flush and seasonal yellowing
- Mixed-stage view showing flowers and fruit together
Notes for Monitoring
- Duranta erecta is commonly planted as an ornamental but can be invasive in some tropical areas
- Responds strongly to rainfall and pruning, often blooming shortly after
- Can be monitored for pollinator activity, flower-fruit overlap, and seasonal responses to stress
- Best phenological markers: abundant violet flower racemes, yellow fruit clusters, and vigorous new growth