Vitex agnus-castus “Alba”

Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus “Alba”
Type: Deciduous shrub
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

In the warm climate of its native Mediterranean, this will become a tree that is 25ft (7.5m). Here in the cooler (USDA) zone 8, it stays to between 8 and 10ft (2.4-3m) high and wide. In colder zones, it freezes to the ground each year, then grows to 3-5ft (90cm-1.5m), as a woody perennial.

Leaves are divided into 5 or 7 fragrant, grey-green leaflets, each 2-6in (5-15cm) long. The blooms are small, fragrant and have prominent stamens. They are held in graceful narrow spires, which can get as long as 12in (30cm), and bloom summer to fall. These are held at the ends of the branches and are known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Other varieties are available with lavender-colored flowers.

The plant is used extensively in alternative medicine as a treatment for PMS and mastalgia, as well as other gynecological afflictions.

Cheers,

John