Kanta mehedi or Golden dewdrop, Duranta erecta
Kanta mehedi or Golden dewdrop ( Duranta erecta , family: Verbenaceae) is a vigorous and poisonous bushy shrub with drooping branches, attaining a height of 7 m. Bark is brownish. Usually there are no thorns on its body but some plants do, especially in older plants. It is drought-tolerant and can grow well in shade or in bright light. It is found everywhere in Bangladesh as an ornamental plant. Its original home is tropical America. It is famous all over the tropical world for its beauty. In Bangla, it is also known as Duronto. Leaves are light green, sometimes yellowish, deeply dented, opposite, 3-7 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. Flowers are light blue, deep purple or white, sweet-scented. These are small, on 10-15 cm long raceme inflorescence. Petals, 5, sepals 5. Fruit is berry, subglobose, turns orange when ripe. Flowering and fruiting occur throughout the year. Propagation is caused by seeds and cuttings. Leaves and fruits are poisonous. The plant is used for preparing inse...