Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

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The Chaste Tree, most commonly referred to as the Vitex, is a native of the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated in warm temperate regions because of its delicate, aromatic foliage and its butterfly-attracting lavender or white flowers. The Vitex likes full sun and is very drought tolerant once planted. Although mostly seen in its multi-stemmed form, it can be easily grown into a small tree. When crushed, the leaves of the Vitex produce a strong lavender smell. It has long been believed to be an anaphrodisiac – leading to its name Chaste Tree. But, its effectiveness for such action remains unproven.