Chaste Tree
vitex agnus-castus
Also known as: ["Monk's Pepper","Vitex"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, known for its aromatic leaves and spikes of lavender flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Vitex |
| Botanical Name: | Vitex agnus-castus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 6–9; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but may die back in severe cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back to healthy buds or branches; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged wood; shape plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; container plants benefit from repotting to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in unfavorable conditions.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; young plants or new growth are most vulnerable.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from cold winds; move container plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-rich formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume parts of the chaste tree, particularly the berries or seeds. The toxic compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of chaste tree berries or seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of iridoid glycosides. While not highly toxic, large quantities can cause discomfort and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chaste tree, contains iridoid glycosides and flavonoids that can have mild physiological effects when ingested in large amounts. These compounds may influence hormonal balance, particularly affecting the pituitary gland and estrogen levels.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vitex agnus-castus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does the Chaste Tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should I water Vitex agnus-castus?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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