Caper Bush (Capparis spinosa), also called the Flinders Rose, is a hardy, sun-loving shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It’s best known for producing the small, pickled flower buds known as capers, which are widely used in gourmet cooking. Beyond its culinary value, this drought-tolerant shrub also offers attractive white to pinkish-white flowers with purple stamens, making it both ornamental and practical.
The Caper Bush thrives in warm, dry climates and poor, rocky soils where other plants struggle. It’s a perennial shrub that can be grown in the ground or containers, and it requires minimal maintenance once established. Its deep roots help it tolerate drought, and its flowers attract bees and pollinators.
Perfect for gardeners looking for an edible and decorative plant that embodies Mediterranean beauty and resilience.
Features
- Produces edible caper buds and fruits (capers and caperberries)
- Beautiful white-pink flowers with delicate purple filaments
- Hardy and drought-tolerant perennial shrub
- Ideal for Mediterranean or xeriscape gardens
- Can be grown in pots, raised beds, or rocky soil
- Non-GMO, open-pollinated variety
- Attracts bees and pollinators
- Low maintenance and long-lived
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Capparis spinosa
- Common Name (US): Caper Bush / Flinders Rose
- Plant Type: Perennial shrub
- Flower Color: White to pinkish-white with purple stamens
- Foliage Color: Deep green
- Height: 2–3 feet (60–90 cm)
- Spread: 3–5 feet (90–150 cm)
- Bloom Time: Spring through late summer
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil
- Soil pH: 7.0–8.5 (alkaline-tolerant)
- Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant when established
- Temperature Range: 65–95°F (18–35°C)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11
- Days to Germination: 14–30 days (requires pre-soaking)
- Seed Depth: 1/4 inch deep
- Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches apart
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes
- Fertilizer Needs: Minimal; light feeding once a year
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Propagation: By seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
- Seed Viability: 2–3 years in dry storage
Planting Guide
- Pre-Soak Seeds: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- When to Sow: Start indoors in late winter or direct sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Soil Conditions: Use sandy or rocky soil with good drainage.
- Light Needs: Place in full sunlight for best growth.
- Watering: Keep soil lightly moist during germination; reduce watering after establishment.
- Germination Period: 14–30 days at 75–85°F.
- Transplanting: Move to permanent location after 4–6 true leaves appear.
- Care Tips: Prune lightly to maintain shape; avoid overwatering.
