Vitex agnus-castus, otherwise known as Chaste Tree or Monk’s Pepper, is a popular tree in Texas especially in residential areas, municipal medians, and parks. This deciduous tree can grow anywhere from 12 to 20 feet tall and will grow well in full sun from zones 6-9. Some of the cultivars for this plant are considered Texas Superstars, including ‘Montrose Purple,’ ‘LeCompte,” and ‘Shoal Creek.” (http://www.texassuperstar.com). These cultivars are considered Superstars because of the improved spikes of flowers, which can reach up to 12 inches long compared to the lesser known varieties with small blooming spikes. The Vitex’s large purple blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, but thankfully the ornamental tree is deer-resistant. In order to get season long blooming lasting from Spring through late Summer, it is recommended to remove the dead flowers after every bloom cycle. A favorite of these cultivars is the Vitex ‘Shoal Creek’ which has more attractive blue-purple flowers, unique gray-green leaves with a silvery underside, and more showy seed pods than other Vitex varieties.