CHASTE (VITEX)

Plant Name: Chaste Tree
Scientific Name: Vitex agnus-castus — Chaste Tree, Monk’s Pepper
Mature Height: 10–20 ft
Mature Spread: 10–15 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast (1–2 ft/year)
Sun: Full sun
Water: Low to moderate; 3–5 gal per watering while establishing, 1–2 times/week during hot, dry weather; 5–10 gal per watering once established during extended dry periods
Foliage: Aromatic, gray-green, palmately compound leaves with 5–7 narrow leaflets; deciduous
Fall Color: Yellow to yellow-green
Flower Color: Lavender-blue to purple
Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
Fruit: Small, dark brown to black berries
Hardiness Zones: 6–9 (−10°F to 30°F)
Features: Heat and drought tolerant; long summer bloom; fragrant foliage; attractive to bees and butterflies; can be grown as a large shrub or small tree
Additional Facts: Chaste Tree thrives in hot, sunny locations and well-drained soil. It can be cut back heavily in late winter to maintain a smaller, tree-like form. It is well suited to the hot, dry conditions of the Southwest once established.