Capparis spinosa v. inermis
Sineless Caper Bush
Description
The Caper Bush is a mounding shrub, reaching 2'-3' tall and wide. It has striking red stems which arch to form the rounded habit of the plant. Leaves are succulent, dark green, rounded. From spring through summer, flower buds appear on the plant, which we know as edible capers. Buds eventually open up to slightly fragrant light pink flowers with lavender stamens that are only open during daylight. The parent plant typically has spines but this variety does not! This plant does well in hot sun, well draining, low fertile soil. Overwatering during summer can kill the plant. It can be espaliered or grown as a ground cover. It tolerates coastal conditions also. Plant may have medicinal uses.
Plant Type
Shrub, Ground cover
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
Pink, Multi-Colored
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Rocky
Soil Condition
Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Showy Flowers
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Entry, Shrub Border, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Medicinal
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.