Vitex

Filler Scientific Name

The Vitex, otherwise known as the “Chaste Tree” or “Monk’s Pepper Tree”, this native shrub is an excellent choice for almost any landscape. This deciduous shrub can grow in almost any soil condition from clay to sandy loam and tolerates poor soil conditions. Large, lightly fragrant, bright purple flower spikes appear in early summer and last through mid-fall. Mature size is roughly 12 feet tall and wide. Vitex are extremely tolerant and adaptable so long as they get full sun and are not over-watered. Often, with age, they are trimmed and manicured into a specimen, vase-shaped, multi-trunk tree.

• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Mature Height: 12 feet
• Mature Spread: 12 feet
• Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous
• Hardiness Zone: 6-9
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Water Requirements: Average watering needs, drought tolerant once established