Vitex agnus-castus
Family: Verbenaceae
Perennial, deciduous multi-stemmed shrub to small tree. Native to the
Mediterranean basin. Makes impressive whorls of lavender flowers
on long racemes. The leaves and flowers exude exotic aromas, especially
when stroked. The hormone balancing effects of Chaste Berries make
the herb a worthy companion to women. Supports the health of the
breasts. The ripe or semi-ripe berries may be made into a fragrant liquid
extract. By the way, the new shipment of Vitex berries from North
Africa is extraordinary. Now is a good time to make that long-needed
tincture...Cultivation: Easy. Start in greenhouse in
pots. Average germ time 18 days. Grow out for a year
(will already be a foot tall or more). In the spring, transplant to a conspicuous
spot in the landscape. A very beautiful and resilient plant which
grows fast under appropriate care and will bounce back after great abuse.
Frost tolerant, but may die back to root during extremely cold winters.
Slow to set leaves come spring, late to flower. A moderate to heavy
spring pruning will stimulate rapid growth.
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