Sky Flower Espalier

Plant Type: Evergreen Flowering Shrub/Vine (trained as espalier)
Plant Height: 8-12 feet (trained size depends on support)
Spread: 6-8 feet
Flower Color: Purple-blue with white edges (sometimes solid lavender)
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade

Sky Flower Espalier: Elegant Blooms with Space-Saving Style

The Sky Flower (Duranta repens), also known as Golden Dewdrop, is a versatile evergreen shrub that produces cascading clusters of violet-blue flowers edged in white, followed by bright golden berries. Trained as an espalier, this plant adds elegance, color, and vertical structure to Arizona gardens while maximizing limited space. Its long bloom season, glossy foliage, and wildlife appeal make it a standout in Phoenix Valley landscapes.

Key Features of Sky Flower Espalier

• Season-Long Blooms: Produces delicate purple-blue flowers from spring through fall.
• Espalier Design: Trained flat along trellises, fences, or walls for a formal and space-efficient look.
• Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinators; berries appeal to birds.
• Year-Round Interest: Glossy evergreen leaves provide structure even when not in bloom.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil; amend clay-heavy sites with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate water needs during establishment; drought tolerant once mature.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering encourages dense growth and helps maintain espalier form.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 25°F; may die back in frost but regrows quickly in spring.

Landscaping Uses

• Espalier Walls: Ideal for vertical accents against walls, fences, or trellises.
• Courtyards & Patios: Perfect for adding elegance to small spaces with limited planting area.
• Wildlife Gardens: Pollinator-friendly with flowers and fruit.
• Containers: Can be trained on trellises in large pots for patios or entryways.

Summary

The Sky Flower Espalier is a colorful, low-maintenance choice for Arizona gardens. With cascading flowers, bright berries, and evergreen foliage, it brings vertical beauty and pollinator appeal while thriving in the region’s heat and sun.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Sky Flower Espalier Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for heaviest flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil; enrich with compost if needed.
Spacing: Plant 6-8 feet apart for multiple espaliers.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Train against trellises, wires, or masonry for espalier effect.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 3-5 gallons per watering, depending on plant size.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Usually 6-9 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days; increase to weekly during extreme heat for maximum blooms.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is low.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 12-18 inches from the base, extending outward as plant matures.
• Flow Rate: 1-2 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 per plant for balanced watering.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase during bloom cycles or prolonged heat waves; reduce during winter.

General Watering Tips for Sky Flower Espalier

• Soil Check: Water when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much moisture reduces blooms and can stress roots.
• Mulch: Use gravel or rock mulch to conserve moisture and highlight the plant’s blooms; keep away from trunk.