Golden dewdrop

Duranta erecta

Family: VerbenaceaeZones: 9a to 11b per NC State

Pet & Human Safety

Toxic to people and pets

Hazardous parts

fruits, leaves

Preparation

Not yet checked.

Hazard type

Poisonous if eaten. NC State says it has been known to kill children, pets and animals; toxic principles listed are isoquinoline, saponin glycoside and hydrocyanic acid. Thorns are also a mechanical hazard.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

NC State tags it Problem for Dogs and Problem for Cats and says if eaten it has been known to kill children, pets and animals. NC State names the toxic parts as fruits and leaves.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 9a to 11b per NC State
Water needs: moderate
Mature size: 10 to 15 ft tall, 4 to 10 ft wide; grown as a 2 to 4 ft annual where winters are cold
Where it comes from: NC State: tropical and sub-tropical Americas, including Florida. UF/IFAS assessment lists origin as Central America, Mexico and South America and treats it as non-native.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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