Beach vitex (Vitex rotundifolia L.f.) is a deciduous woody vine that was introduced to the Southeastern U.S. in the mid-1980's. By the mid-1990's, plant specialists began to notice beach vitex spreading from original plantings on South Carolina beaches. Beach vitex crowds out native dune plants, including certain endangered species. In 2004, it was found on a beach in Alabama. The extent of its invasion is not clear, but efforts are underway by the GeoResources Institute to map and monitor its spread.

Beach vitex is a prostrate sprawling shrub that can reach 1 to 2 foot high and typically 12 feet in diameter. However, runners can grow to infinite lengths with reports of up to 60 feet long. Stems root along their length forming a mat on the soil. Beach vitex is a prolific seed producer. Seeds float and can be carried on waves to other beaches. Brittle stems can break off during high tides, float away, root, and colonize other beaches. Beach vitex is grows quickly, and is drought and salt tolerant.

The GeoResources Institute is monitoring the distribution of beach vitex in the Midsouth, as well as participating in an Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) assessment with the U.S. Geological Survey Biological Resources Discipline.

In the fall of 2003, a task force, comprised of local, state, and federal agencies and organizations was formed to address beach vitex on the Carolina Coast. Major objectives of the task force include Early Detection, Prevention, Rapid Assessment, Rapid Response, and Restoration of the Carolina Coast.

For more information, or if you see naturalized beach vitex, please contact
Dr. John Madsen
GeoResources Institute
Box 9652
Mississippi State, MS 39762-9652
Ph. 662-325-2428
E-mail: jmadsen@gri.msstate.edu.