Plant · GBIF taxon 2925562
Lilac chaste tree
Vitex agnus-castusAlso known as Chaste Tree
Lilac chaste tree bears fragrant violet flower spikes above aromatic leaves divided into narrow finger-like leaflets. It grows as a many-stemmed shrub or small tree beside Mediterranean waterways and other sunny, seasonally moist ground.
Aromatic ShrubViolet SpikesRiparian Plant
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Data DeficientConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXData Deficient — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Photosynthesis; roots absorb water and mineral nutrients
Predators
- Leaf-feeding caterpillars
- Scale insects
- Browsing mammals
ThreatsRiparian clearing, altered water flow, severe drought, and uncontrolled fire
HabitatsRiverbanks, dry streambeds, coastal scrub, wetlands, gardens, and disturbed ground
Life spanA woody perennial that can live for several decades
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLamiaceae
- SpeciesVitex agnus-castus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Avoid breaking aromatic branches or disturbing insects feeding among the flower spikes.
Responsible observation
- Leaves: Check for five to seven narrow leaflets radiating from one point.
- Flowers: Watch the upright violet spikes for busy bee and butterfly visits.
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