Vitex agnus-castus

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Vitex agnus-castus

Chaste Tree, Monk's Pepper Tree

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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Photographer: Normans/Frommer/Devine

Description

Chaste Tree is not a tree but a deciduous shrub that quickly grows to 20' tall and wide. It has beautiful, fragrant lavender or white flowers in summer which is striking against the gray green, slender, pointed leaves. Butterflies love this shrub too. It full sun and medium amount of watering, more in summer. It tolerates coastal conditions but needs heat to look its best. Prune spent flowers to keep it tidy looking.

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

12-25'

Flower Color

Lavender, White

Flower Season

Summer

Leaf Color

Grey Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Medium, Extra in Summer

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Showy Flowers

Seasonal Interest

Summer

Location Uses

Background, Patio

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

Butterflies

Water Saving Tip:

An easy water-wise improvement in lawn areas is to change high output spray sprinkler nozzles to low-flow rotators.

You'll have less runoff and be less likely to apply more water than is needed.