| Botanical Name | Vitex agnus-castus 'Montrose Purple' |
| Description | 'Montrose Purple' is widely considered one of the most prolific bloomers in the Vitex family. This 3-gallon (3G) size is an ideal, budget-friendly starter for Willis and Houston gardens, establishing rapidly in the Texas heat. It is distinguished by its exceptionally large and dense flower panicles that are a richer, darker purple than standard varieties. Blooming throughout the summer, it serves as a primary nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds. Its sage-scented, palmate leaves provide a soft, Mediterranean texture. Highly resilient and drought-tolerant once established, it can be maintained as a large shrub or pruned into a small architectural tree. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Required for best bloom production) |
| Height x Width | 10-15' Height x 10-15' Width |
| Water | Low to Moderate; very drought-tolerant once established. Requires well-drained soil; avoid areas where water sits after a heavy Houston rain. |
| Zones | 6 - 9 |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. |
| Pruning | Prune in late winter to shape. Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage a repeat bloom in late summer. |
| Deer Resistance | High |
| Botanical Name | Vitex agnus-castus 'Montrose Purple' |
| Description | 'Montrose Purple' is widely considered one of the most prolific bloomers in the Vitex family. This 3-gallon (3G) size is an ideal, budget-friendly starter for Willis and Houston gardens, establishing rapidly in the Texas heat. It is distinguished by its exceptionally large and dense flower panicles that are a richer, darker purple than standard varieties. Blooming throughout the summer, it serves as a primary nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds. Its sage-scented, palmate leaves provide a soft, Mediterranean texture. Highly resilient and drought-tolerant once established, it can be maintained as a large shrub or pruned into a small architectural tree. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Required for best bloom production) |
| Height x Width | 10-15' Height x 10-15' Width |
| Water | Low to Moderate; very drought-tolerant once established. Requires well-drained soil; avoid areas where water sits after a heavy Houston rain. |
| Zones | 6 - 9 |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. |
| Pruning | Prune in late winter to shape. Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage a repeat bloom in late summer. |
| Deer Resistance | High |