Plant profile: Arabian lilac (Vitex agnus-castus)

The salt- and drought-tolerant plant’s flowers attract birds, bees and butterflies

Illustration by Kathleen Konicek-Moran

The flowering Vitex agnus-­castus, also dubbed the ­Arabian Lilac, is native to the ­Mediterranean, but can also be found on the east coast of North America. It can reach five metres in height and width, and features leaves with a dark-green top and silver underside. When crushed, the leaves emit a fruity smell. The plant bears blue-mauve flower spikes, which can attract a variety of fauna, including birds, bees and butterflies.

Vitex is easy to keep – it’s a tough, hearty plant that grows fast, and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It also has a high salt tolerance and can withstand salt-laden winds, making it ideal for UAE gardens. ­Although it’s drought-­tolerant, the plant will lose its leaves under extreme conditions, so growing Vitex during the middle of the summer isn’t advised. It’s also difficult to maintain its shape, so ensure that it’s pruned often.