Chaste Tree

The Chaste tree in the butterfly garden behind the Flight Encounter exhibit is in full bloom this week, attracting lots of pollinators. The Chaste Tree (Vignus agnus-castus) is native to Southern Europe and Western Asia, particularly in dry temperate regions. Available in purple and white flowering varieties, Chaste Tree can be grown in the U.S. in zones 6 – 10, reaching a multi-trunked height of about 10 – 15 feet. It likes full sun, and is very drought-tolerant once established.

Chaste trees flower in the spring in Florida. A second flush of blooms can be encouraged by deadheading the spent flowers. While in bloom, its fragrant flowers attract bees, small butterflies, and sometimes even a passing hummingbird. If the flower heads are left on the trees, they will eventually produce a small fruit containing four seeds. Some people use these seeds as seasoning, giving rise to another common name, Monk’s Pepper.

The Chaste tree is a bit of a “look-alike”. The bloom heads cause some to confuse it with the so-called “Butterfly Bush” (Buddleia spp.), and the palmate divided leaves bear a close resemblance to marijuana (Cannabis) – giving the tree its third common name, Hemp Tree. While not closely related to either of these, Chaste trees have long been used for medicinal purposes. The name agnus-castus means “chaste lamb”, a name reflecting the medieval belief that a tea made from the leaves would calm the libido. Today, Chaste tree extract is sold as an herbal supplement to help with menstrual difficulties.