Chaste Tree
Vitex agnus-castus
First noted by Jefferson in 1807, this woody shrub is an Old World native whose purple-lavender flowers attract pollinators.
In his Weather Memorandum Book, Jefferson noted the planting of nine rows of "Vitex Agnus castus. Chaste-trees" on April 11, 1807. Two examples of the Chaste Tree now grow at Monticello—one on the northeast side of the house and one on the West Lawn next to the South Pavilion—and are much commented upon by visitors when in bloom.
In Bloom at Monticello is made possible by support from The Richard D. and Carolyn W. Jacques Foundation.
When you're here...
Between April and October, all house tours come with a free guided Garden Tour, or you can explore the grounds on your own with the Bloomberg Connects App
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Heirloom Seeds and Plants from the Monticello collection
Plant history in your gardens with seeds and plants from Monticello and the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants.
