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Description
The Vitex Agnus-Castus, commonly known as the chaste tree or monk’s pepper, is a deciduous shrub that originates from the Mediterranean region. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, but is usually smaller in gardens. The plant has a unique fragrance and produces small purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The fruit of the chaste tree is a small, black-brown drupe that is used for medicinal purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Vitex |
Appearance
The Vitex Agnus-Castus is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a spreading habit. It has a grey-brown bark that peels in thin strips. The leaves are palmately compound, with five to seven leaflets that are about 2-4 inches long. The leaflets are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The chaste tree produces small, fragrant, lavender-blue flowers that are about 3-6 inches long. They appear in dense spikes that are 6-12 inches long. The fruit is a small, black-brown drupe that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Vitex Agnus-Castus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: The chaste tree is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a yearly application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: The chaste tree prefers well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Vitex Agnus-Castus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The chaste tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Here are some tips on how to prevent and treat these issues:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and by periodically spraying it with water to remove dust and debris. If an infestation occurs, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects can be prevented by keeping the plant well-watered and by periodically spraying it with water to remove dust and debris. If an infestation occurs, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant. If an infestation occurs, remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Vitex Agnus-Castus is native to the Mediterranean region and is often found growing in dry, rocky areas. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Vitex Agnus-Castus a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the fruit of the chaste tree is used for medicinal purposes, particularly in the treatment of hormonal imbalances and menstrual disorders.
Q: Can the chaste tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Vitex Agnus-Castus can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and room for root growth.
Q: Does the plant require pruning?
A: The chaste tree benefits from annual pruning to promote bushier growth and to remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring.
Q: Can the plant tolerate frost?
A: The Vitex Agnus-Castus is frost-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F.
Related Plants
- Vitex Negundo
- Vitex Rotundifolia
- Vitex Trifolia
References
- “Vitex Agnus-Castus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c490
- “Chaste Tree.” University of Florida. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP22800.pdf
- “Vitex Agnus-Castus.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/5349/Vitex-agnus-castus/Details
