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Description
Vitex Negundo, commonly known as the five-leaved chaste tree or Nirgundi, is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is native to many parts of Asia, including India, China, and Malaysia, and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its therapeutic properties. The plant can grow up to 15 feet tall and has aromatic leaves and purple flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Vitex |
Appearance
The leaves of Vitex Negundo are compound and consist of five to seven leaflets that are lance-shaped and serrated. They are dark green on the upper surface and light green on the underside. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers are followed by small, round, black or brown fruit that contains four seeds. The bark of the plant is greyish-brown and has a rough texture.
Care Guide
To keep Vitex Negundo healthy, it is important to provide it with the right conditions.Water: The plant prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil in the spring to encourage healthy growth.Soil: Vitex Negundo prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Vitex Negundo can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vitex Negundo is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with the right conditions and removing any infected leaves or branches.
Habitat
Vitex Negundo is native to many parts of Asia, including India, China, and Malaysia. It is commonly found in open areas, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats such as abandoned fields and waste places.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vitex Negundo toxic to animals?
A: No, Vitex Negundo is not toxic to animals.Q: Can Vitex Negundo be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vitex Negundo can be grown in containers, but it requires a large pot and regular pruning to keep its size in check.Q: How often should I fertilize Vitex Negundo?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil in the spring and mid-summer to encourage healthy growth.Q: How do I prune Vitex Negundo?
A: Prune Vitex Negundo in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
- Vitex agnus-castus
- Vitex trifolia
- Vitex rotundifolia
- Vitex doniana
References
- “Vitex Negundo.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c398.
- “Vitex Negundo.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:86283-1.
- “Vitex Negundo.” The National Center for Biotechnology Information, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3296184/.
