Vitex rotundifolia

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

Many respondents said this was a long lived, hardy and aggressive species which works well as “a prolific groundcover and becomes a woody shrub like naupaka, with a large main trunk.” Others noted use as “a low pedestrian barrier or taller hedge” which can “easily take on any shape or form desired.” Another mentioned that it is “great for erosion control” but that its preference is for dry, hot areas. Its habit tends towards long branches which root where it is on the ground from the nodes if conditions are favorable, and can be “difficult to remove from the landscape when mature.” Several noted its ability to out-compete weeds. One noted its post-fire viability in the Kohala Ranch area in which it remained largely unaffected despite being close (10 feet) to flames. Another said it is potentially a strong post-fire candidate. Cultural uses include for lei making and tools.

Stressors and pests

Several noted that its vigor does rely upon available water, although it does not like wet places. Browsing by ungulates is unknown by respondents.

Availability and propagation

Readily available and easy to grow from both seeds and cuttings, with the latter faster to establish.

Survey Results

For information about the survey, refer to our article: on Coastal Plants for Creating Green Breaks