Duranta erecta is a sprawling shrub or infrequently a small tree and was introduced into gardens for its excellent hedging properties. It is no longer cultivated for a number of reasons, including the fact that the sharp thorns make pruning difficult. It has also been noted as a plant that has the potential to be invasive in South Africa, and the berries are poisonous to humans and pets. New varieties like Duranta ‘Sheena's Gold' have replaced Duranta erecta in garden and landscape use with beautiful golden foilage.