Vitex - Chaste Tree

Vitex trees, also known as Chaste Trees, are a wonderful addition to any garden space on the Emerald Coast of Florida.  Their smaller stature makes them perfect small trees, or patio trees in the corner of beds or as statement pieces.  In early summer, Vitex trees will bloom large purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators.  The seeds that follow are also a food source for many birds, enhancing the ecological health of your landscape.  While not native, Vitex trees are highly adapted to the Gulf Coast region and once established are heat and drought-tolerant, making them a low maintenance choice for adding color and ornamental value to gardens and public spaces. 

vitex chastetree

General Description

Scientific Name: Vitex agnus-castus

Common Names: Chaste Tree, Chastetree, Vitex, Texas Lilac, Lilac Tree

Native Range: Southeastern Europe, Mediterranean, Western Asia

Zone Hardiness: 7 – 11 

Flower Color: Purple

Mature Height: 10 – 15 ft

Mature Width:  15 – 20 ft 

Plant Traits:

  • Pollinator Plant
  • Seeds provide food source for birds
  • Fragrant Flowers
  • Deciduous Small Tree
  • Fast Growing
  • Deer Resistant 

General Care & Cultural Requirements

Light: Full Sun 

Soil Tolerances/Needs: Sandy Loam to Clay;  Acidic to Slightly Alkaline soil; Well draining 

Salt Tolerance: Moderate to aerial salts

Drought Tolerance: High 

Heat Tolerance: High

Recommended Spacing: 6 – 12 ft

Watering: Regular watering to establishment. Once established Vitex are drought tolerant, but can low – moderate irrigation and may need supplemental irrigation in severe droughts. 

Fertilizing: Fertilize in spring with a well balanced, slow release granular fertilizer

Trimming: Trimming is needed to promote strong branching structure.  You can prune the lower branches to achieve a higher canopy.  Trimming should be done in winter or early spring while the plant is dormant.  Tip pruning or deadheading can be done throughout the growing season if desired. 

Uses In The Landscape

  • Statement Tree
  • Pollinator Gardening
  • Accent Tree
  • Mass Planting 
  • Drought Tolerant Landscaping
  • Patio Tree

Pests & Diseases

No major pests or disease issues to note.  Root rot can happen if the area of planting is not well draining and holds too much water. 

Sources

University of FL - IFAS
NC State Extension
BACK TO OUR PLANTS