Vitex is also known as Chastetree. A Mediterranean plant whose medicinal uses have been known since ancient times, it is mentioned in Homer’s Illiad as a “symbol of chastity, capable of warding off evil.” Monks are said to have used it to decrease sexual desire, hence another nickname, Monk's pepper. Among women the fruits, small pepper-like berries collected in the fall, are used for menstrual irregularities. It is very attractive to butterflies and bees. This vitex was seen in full bloom on July 1 in the boulevard on
Notes about gardening in Northern Virginia, the surrounding area, and gardens we visit.
July 10, 2009
Passion in Bloom, Not Bed
Vitex is also known as Chastetree. A Mediterranean plant whose medicinal uses have been known since ancient times, it is mentioned in Homer’s Illiad as a “symbol of chastity, capable of warding off evil.” Monks are said to have used it to decrease sexual desire, hence another nickname, Monk's pepper. Among women the fruits, small pepper-like berries collected in the fall, are used for menstrual irregularities. It is very attractive to butterflies and bees. This vitex was seen in full bloom on July 1 in the boulevard on
July 6, 2009
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