Caperberry

Capparis spinosa

Common name

• Caper Bush
• Caper Plant
• Mediterranean Caper

 Capparis spinosa is exotic to Australia.

It is native to the Mediterranean region, North Africa, and Western Asia. While Australia has native Capparis species, C. spinosa is an introduced culinary plant.

Description

Capparis spinosa is a low-growing, spreading perennial shrub with arching branches and rounded, fleshy green leaves. It produces striking white flowers with long purple stamens, followed by caperberries if left unharvested. The plant has a rugged, natural look and is well suited to dry climates.

Key features

• Edible flower buds (capers) and fruit (caperberries)
• Decorative flowers with high ornamental value
• Extremely drought tolerant
• Thrives in poor, rocky, well-drained soils
• Ideal for Mediterranean and water-wise gardens
• Can be grown in containers, rockeries, or groundcover plantings

Uses

• Culinary:
  
• Unopened flower buds are harvested and pickled as capers
• Mature fruit is pickled as caperberries
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• Ornamental:
  
• Attractive foliage and flowers for dry gardens
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• Landscape:
  
• Suitable for slopes, rock walls, and coastal condition

Care & growing conditions

• Sun: Full sun
• Water: Low once established; avoid overwatering
• Soil: Very well-drained soil is essential
• Climate: Prefers warm, dry climates; tolerates coastal exposure
• Maintenance: Minimal; prune lightly to maintain shape
• Fertiliser: Not heavy-feeding; excessive fertiliser reduces performance

Why it’s important

• A valuable edible plant for home gardeners interested in food growing
• Supports water-wise and sustainable gardening
• Adds diversity to edible landscapes beyond common fruit and herbs
• Demonstrates how tough, drought-adapted plants can also be productive and beautiful

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