Vitex trifolia L.

Vitex trifolia is a species of flowering plant in the Verbenaceae family.
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Binomial Name & Family 
• Scientific Name: Vitex trifolia L.
• Family: Verbenaceae
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Synonyms: Vitex agnus-castus subsp. trifolia , Vitex lucens A. Cunn.
Common Names: Blue Chaste Tree, Three-leaved Chaste Tree, Coastal Chaste Tree
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Malayalam Name: Vellanochi നൊച്ചി
Tamil Name: vellai nochi.
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Botanical Description:
Vitex trifolia is a small shrub or small tree, typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially along coastal areas
Height: It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows to 2–4 meters in height. In favorable conditions, it can become a larger shrub or small tree.
Leaves:The leaves are opposite, palmately compound, and usually consist of 3 leaflets (hence the name trifolia). Shape: The leaflets are ovate to elliptic with a tapered tip and a serrated margin. Size: Each leaflet is about 5–15 cm long. Color: The upper surface of the leaflets is dark green, while the underside is lighter and sometimes silvery, giving the plant a slightly silvery appearance.
Flowers: Inflorescence: The flowers are arranged in terminal clusters or panicles. Color: The flowers are typically blue to purple or lavender, with a funnel-shaped corolla. The flowers are small but form attractive clusters, giving the plant a beautiful bloom during the flowering season. Flowering Season: Usually blooms during summer to autumn.
Fruit: Fruit Type: The fruit is a small, dark purple drupe (berry) about 1–2 cm in diameter. It is a 4-segmented fruit that splits open when mature to release the seeds.
Bark:The bark is typically grayish-brown, rough, and sometimes exfoliates in strips.

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Uses of Vitex trifolia:
1. Ornamental Use:
o Vitex trifolia is commonly planted as an ornamental shrub or small tree due to its attractive flowers and leaves.
o It is used in coastal gardens, landscaping, and public spaces due to its tolerance for salty air and coastal conditions.
2. Medicinal Uses:
o Traditional Medicine: In some cultures, Vitex trifolia is used in traditional remedies for various ailments.
 It has been used to treat digestive issues, diarrhea, and fever.
 Some parts of the plant (especially the leaves) have been used in topical applications to treat skin conditions like rashes or wounds.
o Astringent: The leaves are sometimes used as a mild astringent in traditional healing.
3. Aromatic Properties:
o The leaves of the plant have a pleasant, aromatic scent when crushed, often compared to lavender or sage.