Chaste Berry Tree (Vitex Agnus-Castus) Monk's Pepper Purple Fragrant Flower Seeds

The Chaste Berry Tree (Vitex agnus-castus), also called Monk’s Pepper, is a stunning and aromatic shrub or small tree celebrated for its lavender-purple blossoms and fragrant foliage. A pollinator favorite, it attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds throughout the summer.

Native to the Mediterranean region, this drought-tolerant, sun-loving plant produces small, pepper-like berries long valued in herbal traditions for promoting hormonal balance. The Chaste Tree’s graceful form, aromatic leaves, and colorful blooms make it a standout addition to herbal gardens, cottage landscapes, and pollinator habitats.

Features

• Beautiful & Fragrant: Produces long clusters of purple flowers with a delightful scent.
• Medicinal Heritage: The berries are used traditionally in herbal remedies.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in hot, dry climates once established.
• Easy to Grow: Low-maintenance and fast-growing ornamental shrub or tree.

Specifications

• Common Name: Chaste Tree / Monk’s Pepper
• Scientific Name: Vitex agnus-castus
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub or small tree
• USDA Zones: 6 – 9
• Mature Height: 8 – 15 ft (2.5 – 4.5 m)
• Spread: 8 – 12 ft (2.5 – 3.5 m)
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
• Soil pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant when mature
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
• Flower Color: Lavender to deep purple
• Foliage: Fragrant, gray-green, palmately compound leaves
• Fruit: Small aromatic berries resembling peppercorns
• Germination Time: 2 – 4 weeks
• GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
• Origin: Mediterranean Basin

Planting Guide

• Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing.
• Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep in moist, well-draining soil.
• Temperature: Maintain 70–80 °F (21–27 °C) for optimal germination.
• Light: Full sunlight or bright grow lights.
• Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors once frost danger has passed.
• Spacing: 3–5 ft apart for shrub form or 6–8 ft for tree form.
• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; reduce once mature.