Contents
Description
Vitex Trifolia Subsp. Litoralis, commonly known as the Coastal Vitex, is a tropical shrub native to coastal regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is a member of the Verbenaceae family and is often grown for its ornamental value due to its attractive foliage and flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Vitex |
Appearance
The Coastal Vitex is a small to medium-sized shrub, growing up to 6 feet in height and width. It has glossy green leaves that are palmately compound, with 3-5 leaflets. The plant produces fragrant, lavender-blue flowers in summer and fall, which attract butterflies and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by small, black fruit that persist into the winter months.
Care Guide
The Coastal Vitex prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, but can be grown as an annual or container plant in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Coastal Vitex is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
The Coastal Vitex is native to coastal regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia, where it grows in sandy or rocky soils close to the ocean. It is often planted as an ornamental shrub in coastal gardens and landscapes, and is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Coastal Vitex a salt-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the Coastal Vitex is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal gardens.
Q: Can the Coastal Vitex be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Coastal Vitex can be grown in containers in colder climates.
Q: Does the Coastal Vitex attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Coastal Vitex produces fragrant flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Q: How often should the Coastal Vitex be fertilized?
A: The Coastal Vitex should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
Related Plants
- Vitex Negundo
- Vitex Agnus-Castus
- Vitex Rotundifolia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/vitex/coastal-vitex-care.htm
- https://www.floridatrend.com/article/24774/coastal-vitex-is-a-hard-to-find-plant-that-rewards-gardeners-with-fragrant-blooms
- https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1279
