Common Name(s): | Hemp-tree |
Scientific Name: | Vitex agnus-castus |
Family: | Verbenaceae |
Longevity: | Perennial |
Season: | Warm |
Origin: | Introduced |
Height: | 5 m |
Flowers: | May - October |
Fruits: | Fall |
Description: A widely cultivated ornamental shrub or small tree occurring on various sites. Seeds are reported to be a sedative and a substitute for pepper. Perfume can be made from flowers and the aromatic leaves are used to spice foods. Often escaping and naturalizing in moist areas and waste places. Also commonly called Tree-of-Chastity due to the white-flowered forms having long been considered a symbol of chastity. |