vitex
(ˈvaɪtɛks)
[L. name used by Pliny for Vitex agnus-castus or a similar shrub, later adopted as a generic name by Linnæus and earlier botanists.]
A deciduous shrub or small tree, often aromatic, of the genus of the same name, belonging to the family Verbenaceæ. Cf. agnus castus.
| 1608 Topsell Serpents 37 The leaves of Vitex..being cast on the coales for a fumigation, doe with theyr vapour chase away venomous beastes. 1829 [see clerodendrum]. 1955 E. Pound Classic Anthol. i. 71 Vitex in swamp ground, Branched loveliness..Vitex negundo, casting thy flowers in air. 1976 Hortus Third (L. H. Bailey Hortorium) 1161/2 Vitexes do well in any good soil. |