Duranta erecta

Pigeon Berry is an evergreen sprawling shrub or rarely a small tree in the verbena family. It is native to tropical and sub-tropical Americas and there is some debate as to whether it is native to FL and TX.  It is considered invasive on some tropical islands. In its native environment, it is found in rocky or sandy coastal areas with full sun or moister, disturbed sites inland. It grows in a somewhat weeping habit with showy flowers and fruits up to 10-20 feet tall. Mature plants have thorns. The Genus name honors Castore Durante a Papal physician and botanist in Rome. The specific epithet in Latin means upright or erect

The plant grows quickly in well-drained soils in full sun. The showy clusters of flowers are light blue to purple and appear from summer to fall. They are followed by yellow-orange clusters of round fruits in late summer to fall. The fruits can be fatal to dogs and children if eaten but do not harm the birds.

In colder climates, grow this plant as an annual where it will reach 2-4 feet tall rather than the 10-20 feet tall in tropical areas. It can also be grown in containers and brought indoors during cold weather. Pruning is recommended to keep the plant more compact.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. Watch for whiteflies. Poisonous