Species: Capparis spinosa

Family: Capparidaceae  
Genus:  Capparis
Species description: Leaves glabrous, petiolate, orbicular or orbicular-ovate;, obtuse or emarginate at apex. Stipular spines recurved, sometimes weakly developed. Flowers 5-7 cM in diameter, slightly zygomorphic, sepals purplish.

There has been selection for large flower-buts in the typical plant (which is probably introduced in the western part of its distribution) for their use of condiment. A distinctive coastal variant with pendent branches, somewhat succulent leaves, and stipular spines absent or caducous at an early stage, is probably more widespread as a natave plant (var. intermes).

Field Notes:

Habitat:

Distribution: Mediterranean region; Portugal; Krym. Al Bl Co Cr Ga Gr Hs It Ju Lu Rs(K) Sa Si

Found: S.Spain

Date: 23-May-93

Flora Europea:1-259

Literatuur:

Notes: Culivation in S.Spain. Needed: more pictures

Pictures: A.Voswinkel, The Netherlands

email: aart@knoware.nl