Vitex Shoal Creek

Description: Vitex Shoal Creek is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows in a rounded form with multiple trunks. It is characterized by its aromatic, palmate leaves that are divided into five to seven narrow leaflets. The foliage is a grayish-green color and provides a beautiful backdrop for the plant's summer blooms. In mid to late summer, Vitex Shoal Creek produces long spikes of fragrant, lavender-blue flowers that attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by small, round, dark brown fruit capsules. Overall, Vitex Shoal Creek is valued for its ornamental appeal, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators to the garden.

Size: Vitex Shoal Creek typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) with a similar spread. It has a moderate to fast growth rate, particularly when grown in optimal conditions. This cultivar tends to be larger and more vigorous than some other Vitex varieties, making it well-suited for use as a specimen plant or focal point in the landscape. However, it can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size or to shape the plant to fit a particular space.

Best Growing Zones: Vitex Shoal Creek is well-suited to USDA hardiness zones 6 through 9. It thrives in temperate to subtropical climates with mild winters and hot summers. This shrub prefers full sun and is relatively tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it is well-drained. Vitex Shoal Creek is also drought-tolerant once established and can withstand periods of dryness, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise landscapes.

Soil Requirements: Vitex Shoal Creek prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil, as long as it is well-drained. Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure before planting can improve soil fertility and drainage, promoting healthy growth and flowering. Vitex Shoal Creek is relatively tolerant of urban pollution and can be grown in a variety of environments, including urban and suburban landscapes.

Maintenance: Vitex Shoal Creek is a low-maintenance shrub that requires minimal care once established. It should be watered regularly during the establishment period to encourage healthy root development, but it is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Pruning is generally not necessary for Vitex Shoal Creek, but it can be pruned as needed to maintain a desired size and shape or to remove any dead or diseased branches. This shrub is relatively pest and disease resistant but may occasionally be affected by issues such as powdery mildew or aphids. These problems can usually be managed with proper cultural practices, including good air circulation and well-drained soil.