Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree)

Chaste Tree, Monk's Pepper

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as the Chaste Tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree admired for its aromatic foliage and striking spikes of lavender blue flowers. Flowering from summer into autumn, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to NZ gardens. Its grey green leaves and long flowering season provide beauty and interest, while its hardy and low maintenance nature ensures it thrives in a variety of landscapes.

Vitex agnus castus with blue flowers and lush green foliage growing near the sea.
Vitex agnus castus large and showy blue flower spikes with lush green foliage.
A Vitex agnus castus (Chaste tree) plant with showy blue flowers and green foliage.

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree) is currently unavailable, but we do have other other amazing species and varieties of Vitex available.

explore them here

Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Shrubs
Height:2.00 m
Spread:2.00 m
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:
Garden uses:Living areas, Pool areas
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asChaste Tree, Monk's Pepper
Sku15133

How to grow Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree) in NZ

Vitex agnus-castus thrives in full sun and prefers free draining soil. In NZ gardens, it adapts well to warm, sheltered sites and is tolerant of drought once established. Plant in a sunny position where it will receive at least six hours of direct light daily for the best flowering results. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce once roots are strong. With its resilience and adaptability, the Chaste Tree is well suited to a wide range of NZ landscapes.

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree) care tips

Caring for Vitex agnus-castus is simple and rewarding. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage fresh flowering growth. Apply a slow release fertiliser in spring to support healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Water during prolonged dry spells, though established plants are tolerant of dry conditions. With minimal care, the Chaste Tree will provide years of beauty and interest.

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree) size, spacing, and growth rate

Vitex agnus-castus typically grows 2 to 4 metres tall with a spread of 2 to 3 metres, forming a rounded shrub or small tree. For group plantings, space plants 2 to 3 metres apart to allow room for growth. It has a moderate growth rate and quickly develops into an attractive specimen. With proper care, it establishes well and flowers within a couple of years. Its size and graceful form make it an excellent choice for medium to large NZ gardens and landscape designs.

Landscaping uses for Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree)

Vitex agnus-castus is highly valued in landscaping for its long flowering season and ornamental foliage. It is perfect as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as part of a pollinator friendly garden. The lavender blue flowers provide colour and fragrance, while the grey green leaves add contrast to surrounding greenery. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for dry or coastal gardens. In NZ, the Chaste Tree brings elegance, colour, and ecological value to landscapes.

Why buy Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree) from The Plant Company?

When you buy Vitex agnus-castus from The Plant Company, you are choosing premium quality plants grown with care in NZ. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, The Plant Company provides strong, healthy plants that are ready to thrive in your garden. We offer safe nationwide delivery, expert advice, and reliable service with every order. Add the Chaste Tree to your garden with confidence and enjoy a plant that delivers beauty, fragrance, and lasting seasonal colour.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree)? We are here to help.

Vitex lucens (Puriri) lush, green foliage.
Most Popular

Vitex lucens

Vitex lucens (Puriri) grows best in warm, frost-free areas of New Zealand, particularly in the North Island. It prefers a sunny position with...

From$22.08
A large and colourful Vitex trifolia purpurea plant in a garden.
Most Popular

Vitex trifolia Purpurea

Vitex trifolia Purpurea, commonly known as Arabian Lilac, is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its aromatic foliage and clusters of lilac...

leptospermum-red-damask--1
Most Popular

Leptospermum Red Damask

Leptospermum Red Damask, also known as Leptospermum scoparium 'Red Damask', is a hardy New Zealand native shrub celebrated for its striking double...

From$24.54
fuchsia-derby-
Most Popular

Fuchsia Derby

Fuchsia Derby is a variety of fuchsia favoured for its exquisite flowers. It becomes smothered in showy, single flowers which are coloured dark...

lavender-blue-mountain-
Most Popular

Lavender Blue Mountain

Lavender Blue Mountain is one of the more popular Lavender varieties due to its versatility and impressive aesthetics. This compact shrub features...

leptospermum-princess-anne--3
Most Popular

Leptospermum Princess Anne

Leptospermum Princess Anne is a hardy New Zealand native shrub celebrated for its stunning double white flowers with maroon centres and aromatic...

From$22.08
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

411 Google reviews