Chaste tree, monk's pepper or chasteberry, is a useful deciduous shrub native to Southern Europe, particularly the Mediterranean region. The soft green leaves, flowers and seeds are aromatic with a spicy scent similar to crushed sage.

Slender, purple flower spikes in late summer or early autumn resemble those of Buddleja (butterfly bush) and are equally useful to bees and butterflies. It can be pruned to form a small tree or used as a screen or hedge. To encourage flowering, cut out the old flowering shoots and remove the seeds to prevent self-seeding.

It prefers full sun and loose, well-drained soil with adequate but not wet soil moisture. Once established, it does well in a hot, dry environment and tolerates drought.

Vitex agnus-castus has long been known to traditional medicine and herbalists, having been described by the ancient Greek physicians in the 6th century BC.