- Chaste tree blooms are classified as lilac or violet in color.mauve lilac image by haemengine from Fotolia.com
The Vitex angus-castus, or chaste tree, is a dramatic and colorful addition to an outdoor landscape. The chaste tree is most commonly treated as a low shrub and kept well pruned, but a chaste tree permitted to grow to its full potential may reach 18 feet. The chaste tree is a suitable choice due to its distinct blossoms, hardy variety and adaptability---but like all plants, it comes with a handful of drawbacks that a homeowner should consider before investing. - Chaste trees are classified as suitable for hardiness zones 6 through 9, providing a wide range of growing opportunities. Chaste trees are highly adaptable to a variety of sun and soil conditions, though ideal growth occurs under full sun and well-drained soil. Chaste trees can be pruned aggressively to keep their height restricted, but normal growth does not require much, if any, trimming or pruning. Droughts are not a concern for chaste trees; they will continue blooming and growing through moderate dry spells.
- One of the most appealing characteristics of the chaste tree is the colorful, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. The lavender-colored blossoms create clusters of slender springs with delicate flowers; many clusters grow to at least 6 inches in length. The size, color and scent are similar to lilac, though chaste trees give off a slightly sharper, more peppery smell. The blooming season is especially long; most climates support a chaste tree blooming season from early spring all the way into the fall.
However, the flowers of the chaste tree also cause one of its significant disadvantages. The highly fragrant flowers are not only appealing to people but also to pests, especially bees. Though most of the attracted insects (like butterflies) will not harm the tree or humans, bees can be especially bothersome to families with small children or adults with bee allergies. - Chaste trees are remarkably resistant to the many plagues that shorten the lives of less-resistant trees. Chaste trees are unlikely to die due to tree diseases, root rot or invasive pests that damage the root structure of the tree. Likewise, chaste trees are resistant to short bouts of severe weather including cold and drought. However, even a healthy, well-maintained chaste tree will not exceed a lifetime of 20 years. If you're interested in a long-lasting tree, the chaste tree may not be a wise investment.
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