Round-leaf Vitex, Beach Vitex (Vitex rotundifolia)

Round-leaf Vitex, Beach Vitex
Scientific Name: Vitex rotundifolia L. f.
Family: Verbenaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset:
USDA: 8-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy in Phoenix
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Hawaii, Pacific to Australia, Asia
Growth Habits: Rapidly spreading shrub, up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall
Watering Needs: Moderate to regular water.

This Vitex can be found on the Hawaian beaches at the tide line, forming extensive colonies. It has silvery aromatic leaves. Its flowers are short bluish purple spikes, about half an inch long, in summer, followed by 1/4 inch in diameter (6 mm) bluish-black fruits.
The species name "rotundifolia" comes from the Latine for "round-leaved".

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