Duranta Erecta Alba

• Native to Central and South America, naturalised in warm regions of Australia as an ornamental garden plant. • Features masses of small white tubular flowers in drooping clusters followed by bright orange berries. • Fast-growing evergreen shrub reaching 2-4 metres tall with graceful arching branches. • Beloved by gardeners for its long flowering season, fragrant blooms, and ability to attract native butterflies. • Heat and drought tolerant once established, making it ideal for Australian coastal and subtropical gardens.

• Water weekly during spring and summer, reducing to monthly in winter - check soil moisture 5cm down before watering. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development.
• Position in full sun for best flowering, though tolerates partial shade in hot climates. Minimum 6 hours direct sunlight daily produces most blooms.
• Plant in well-draining soil enriched with compost - avoid heavy clay or waterlogged areas. Raised beds work excellently for this species.
• Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertiliser, stopping in winter. Slow-release granular fertiliser applied in spring also works well.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove spent blooms. Heavy pruning in late winter encourages vigorous spring growth.
• Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from stem base.

• Provide full sun to partial shade for best flowering performance, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Morning sun with afternoon protection works well in extreme heat.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings during growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter months.
• Maintain moderate humidity around the plant through mulching and grouping with other plants. Avoid placing in extremely dry or windy positions.
• Tolerates temperatures down to around 5°C but protect from frost when young. Established plants handle heat well up to 35°C.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth for next season's blooms.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth causing leaf curling - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check regularly during spring growth spurts.
• Scale insects may attach to stems and leaves, appearing as small brown bumps - treat with horticultural oil spray. Remove heavily infested branches if necessary.
• Root rot occurs in poorly drained soils or with overwatering - ensure good drainage and reduce watering frequency. Plant in raised beds if soil drainage is poor.
• Leaf spot diseases can develop in humid conditions with poor air circulation - prune for better airflow and avoid overhead watering.