Vitex agnus-castus

Common Name:
Chaste Tree, Monk’s Pepper

Description:
Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as the Chaste Tree, is a deciduous, fast-growing shrub or small tree with aromatic, grey-green foliage and beautiful spikes of lavender-purple flowers in summer and early autumn. These fragrant flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. The plant’s slender, finger-like leaves create a soft, airy texture, adding to its ornamental appeal.

Native to the Mediterranean region, the Chaste Tree is highly drought-tolerant once established and thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. It is an excellent choice for hedging, screening, feature planting, or coastal gardens due to its resilience in dry and sandy conditions. Pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact shape and encourages more prolific blooms. Traditionally, its seeds have been used in herbal medicine, but the plant is primarily grown as an ornamental shrub.

Form:

• Shrub - Large
• Tree - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 2–5 m
• Width: 2–4 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Summer to Early Autumn

Flower Colour:

• Lavender-Purple

Key Attributes:

• Drought Tolerant (once established)
• Suitable for Coastal Conditions
• Bee Attracting
• Butterfly Attracting
• Fragrant Flowers
• Suitable for Hedging
• Deciduous

Toxicity:

• Not known to be toxic to humans or pets. However, its seeds have been historically used in herbal medicine and may have hormonal effects.

Companion Plants:

• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Salvia (Sage)
• Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary)
• Perovskia (Russian Sage)
• Buddleja (Butterfly Bush)