Life Cycle
Perennial
Plant Characteristics
Fragrant foliage
Growth Habit
Upright
Bloom Season
Late spring to summer
Flavour Profile
N/A
Suitable for
Outdoor
Seed Type
Open-pollinated seeds
Plant Type
Flowering
Planting Season
Spring
Fruit Size
N/A
Plant Height
Tall
Light Requirement
Full Sun
Water Needs
Low to Moderate
Hardiness Zones
Warm to Mild
Container Garden
Yes
Plant Spacing
Wide
Planting Depth
Shallow
Growing Conditions
Well-Drained
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "chasteberry" supplement use relevant to this plant?
Is "chasteberry" supplement use relevant to this plant?
Vitex agnus-castus berries have a real reputation in herbal supplements for hormonal support, but this listing is for ornamental garden planting, not supplement-grade material.
Is this related to true lavender (Lavandula)?
Is this related to true lavender (Lavandula)?
No, despite the "Lavender" name, Vitex castus is a completely different genus; the name likely refers to its lavender-toned flower spikes rather than any botanical relation.
Can this be kept as a large shrub instead of letting it grow into a tree form?
Can this be kept as a large shrub instead of letting it grow into a tree form?
Yes, with regular pruning it can be maintained as a large shrub rather than allowed to develop into its natural small tree form.
Does this plant spread or self-seed in warm climates?
Does this plant spread or self-seed in warm climates?
Yes, it can self-seed in favorable warm regions and has been noted as a concern in some areas for naturalizing beyond garden beds.
What pollinators does it attract most?
What pollinators does it attract most?
Butterflies are specifically noted as frequent visitors to its fragrant flower spikes, alongside bees.
Is it evergreen or does it lose its leaves in winter?
Is it evergreen or does it lose its leaves in winter?
In cooler parts of its range, it typically behaves as deciduous, dropping leaves and dying back somewhat before regrowing in spring.