Chaste tree - Vitex agnus-castus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Chaste tree

Also known as: Lilac chastetree, Monk's pepper, Chasteberry

The chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a flowering shrub that thrives in subtropical regions. While it prefers full sun, it can grow with partial shade and tolerate temperatures as low as -23 ℃. The chaste tree has been cultivated in Europe dating back to Ancient Greece. Modern use focuses on creating essential oils from the leaves and fruits.

Scientific classification

Species

Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

1 m to 5 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green, Gray, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper, Black

Fruit Color

Blue, Purple, White, Pink, Violet, Lavender

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Chaste tree

Distribution of Chaste tree

Distribution Map

The native range of chaste tree stretches from the Mediterranean through Pakistan, where it grows in damp regions near brackish water. It is an introduced species in the southern half of the United States, Central America, and a few South American countries. It is considered invasive in the US, particularly in the Carolinas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp places by streams and on the littoral

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Bright blue sprays of flowers make chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) a popular garden choice ideal for beds and borders in informal and cottage gardens. This is also a good plant for butterfly gardens since it attracts butterflies with its autumn blooms. The plant's bright flowers stand out well in contrast with holly, viburnum, and boxwood.

Symbolism

Exorcism, Protection, purity, chastity

Interesting Facts

Chaste tree is considered to be the sacred tree of a virgin goddess is Ancient Greek mythology and Ancient Roman mythology. In Ancient Greece, this goddess is called Hestia. In Ancient Rome, the same goddess is called Vesta.

Name Story

Lilac chastetree: Lilac can be traced back to the Turkish language, "leylak", probably came from the name of the plant in the Balkans. Now, lilac refers to an aroma or pale violet tone. The florets of the plant are pale purple in appearance. Its latin specific epithet repeats the word, "chaste" in both Greek and Latin. The small tree was considered to be sacred to the virginal goddess Hestia/Vesta. So, it is called lilac chastetree.

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Quickly Identify Chaste tree

Fragrant, pink, lavender, or white flowers in large panicles up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.

Grayish-green compound leaves with lance-shaped leaflets emitting a menthol-like aroma when crushed.

Small, purple drupes about 3-4 mm in diameter with a pungent flavor and four-celled structure.

Distinctive gray bark with shallow, vertical furrows for a rugged appearance.

Deciduous shrub or tree with an open, rounded growth habit and paler undersides on leaves.

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Care Guide for Chaste tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chaste tree originates from the Mediterranean, thriving in dry summers and wet winters. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, mimicking its natural habitat. Deep watering is beneficial for promoting robust root growth during its active growing season to support flowering.

Fertilize: Fertilize chaste tree in early spring with 10-10-10 at 1 tablespoon per foot of height. This promotes healthy growth and blooms. After establishment, fertilize once per season, reduce for mature chaste tree, and ensure thorough watering post-application. Use slow-release fertilizers to minimize burn risk and monitor growth for feeding adjustments.

Pruning: Chaste tree benefits from annual pruning in early spring to remove weak branches and enhance growth. Thinning the interior promotes air circulation and light access, maintaining health and structure while improving flowering quality.

Propagation: Chaste tree thrives in cooler months for propagation, ideally autumn and winter, utilizing methods like cutting and layering. Expect moderate success with signs like new shoot growth. Enhance outcomes with proper hydration and indirect sunlight.

Repotting: Chaste tree requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to promote healthy growth and prevent root rot.

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Images of Chaste tree

Distribution of Chaste tree

Culture

Quickly Identify Chaste tree

Care Guide for Chaste tree

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