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Vitex agnus-castus var. latifolia (Chaste tree)

Vitex agnus-castus var. latifolia Photo/Illustration: Bill Johnson

(Based on 2 user reviews)

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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Vitex agnus-castus var. latifolia VY-teks ag-nus-KAS-tus variety lat-ih-FOE-lee-ah Common Name: Chaste tree Genus: Vitex

Chaste tree is a southern favorite beginning to gain favor across the country. Whether left to grow as a large, multistemmed shrub or cut back annually for a more compact look, this selection is a winner. Fine, lacy leaves are glossy and green. Bright blue flower panicles begin to form in early summer and continue through the heat of the season and into fall. This is a reasonably cold-hardy, deer-resistant woody plant, and while V. agnus-castus is typically considered a Zone 7 plant, the variety latifolia can be grown in Zone 6 and even in southern areas of Zone 5.


 Noteworthy characteristics:

Apparently, the ancient Greeks used an extract of this plant to “calm the male inner fire.” We're not sure how to put that to use in the garden.


 Care: These plants are happiest in full sun and well-drained soil.
 Propagation:

 From cuttings or by seed.


 Problems:

 Leaf spot, root rot, or scale insects.
Height 10 ft. to 15 ft.;15 ft. to 30 ft.
Spread 10 ft. to 15 ft.;15 ft. to 30 ft.
Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower;Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only;Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Tolerance Deer Tolerant
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Fragrant Foliage; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Fall; Fall; Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Blue Flower; Purple/ Lavender Flower
Uses , Color, Foliage, Backyard, Flowering Tree, Specimen Plant/ Focal Point
Style , Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest , Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type ,Perennials,Shrubs,Trees

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