Plant Database
Arabian Lilac
Vitex trifolia ‘Purpurea’
Vitex trifolia 'Purpurea' (also known as Vitex trifolia 'Fascination') is a fast-growing, semi-evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its aromatic, multi-colored foliage and long season of fragrant lavender flowers. Native to tropical Asia and Australia, this striking plant features three-part (trifoliate) compound leaves with oval, pointed leaflets that are gray-green on top and rich purple-gray underneath, creating a beautiful two-toned effect that shimmers in the breeze. When crushed, the leaves release a strong, peppery, sage-like fragrance . From summer through fall, it produces abundant, showy, conical clusters of small, tubular, light purple to lavender flowers with a sweet, honey-like fragrance, attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. The flowers are followed by small, dark, berry-like drupes. With its rounded to vase-shaped habit, fast growth, and excellent drought tolerance once established, it is an outstanding choice for sunny borders, Mediterranean gardens, coastal plantings, and as a colorful accent or informal hedge.