Vitex altissima, commonly known as the Peacock Chaste Tree or Tall Chaste Tree, is a woody plant that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It features a straight trunk with greyish bark that becomes scaly with maturity. The leaves are trifoliolate or palmate, compound, and opposite, with an elliptic or elliptic-lanceolate shape and serrate or sometimes entire margin. The tree produces small, bluish-white flowers in terminal panicles, and its fruit is a purplish-black drupe containing four seeds.
Habitat
Native to the Indomalayan realm, including countries like Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, Vitex altissima thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, often found in forests and along riverbanks.
Planting and Care
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Propagation: Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and kept moist until germination.
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Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.
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Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Additional Information
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Economical Values:
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Timber: The wood is used for making furniture, construction, and other implements.
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Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as inflammations, wounds, ulcers, and skin conditions.
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Wildlife Significance:
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Habitat: Provides shelter and nesting sites for various bird species.
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Food Source: The fruits are consumed by birds and small mammals.
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