Three-leaved Chaste Tree (Vitex trifolia)

Three-leaved Chaste Tree

Vitex trifolia

Its aromatic foliage carries soft herbal warmth, a drought-tolerant ornamental shrub. Common names: Three-leaved Chaste Tree, Simpleleaf Chaste Tree.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense sunlight in arid, well-ventilated regions
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Watering Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; highly drought-tolerant once root system is established
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperate to tropical climates; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate (three leaflets per node), aromatic, elliptical to lanceolate, with gray-green fuzzy undersides
  • Flower: Small pale lavender to white blooms in dense terminal panicles, emitting a mild sweet fragrance
  • Stem: Woody, gray-brown bark with freely branching growth habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to support new growth; reduce during prolonged rainy periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn to prepare plant for dormancy

Banana peel tea:Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1L water for 3 days; strain to remove solids, dilute 1:10 with water, and apply as root drench to avoid odor and pest issues
Pruning
  • Prune spent flower panicles in late summer to encourage reblooming and maintain tidy growth
  • Thin overcrowded branches in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Trim to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning of mature wood to preserve flowering potential
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No recorded toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans; foliage may be used in mild herbal preparations

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; foliage used in traditional herbal remedies for mild calming effects