Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’

Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’

Also known by its common name of Sky Flower, Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’ is an upright, evergreen perennial that can grow into a large bush, or with selective pruning, can be shaped into a small tree or an espalier. If allowed to grow to its full potential, it can reach 12 feet tall x 4–6 feet wide, with slightly arching branches.

‘Gold Edge’ has 2-3” long leaves with coarsely serrated margins. They have an irregular patter of vivid lime-green in the center and are bordered with sunny golden-yellow. We like to think that the color combination of Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’ is a nod to our local university - and Alma Mater, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

The foliage grows in an opposite pattern along the stems, and at the base of each leaf, there is a ½” long spine. (Keep this in mind when pruning). Clusters of small sky-blue flowers appear in summer and are followed by waxy orange-yellow berries. (These berries are not edible) ‘Gold Edge’ is hardy to about 25°F, and the Sunset Climate Zones are 13, 16, 17-24; H1, H2. They grow best in full to partial sun, but can also perform very well in shady areas of the garden. Plant Ceratostigma plumbaginoides ‘Leadwort’ at the base of Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’ for a dramatic contrast of dark and light foliage.

We are currently growing Duranta erecta ‘Gold Edge’ in 1 gallon containers. Visit our website www.clearwatercolor.com to see photos of the these and many other plants we are growing. Also, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @clearwatercolornursery to see what’s happening around our nursery in the scenic Los Osos valley.