Caper bush

Capparis spinosa, commonly known as caper bush, is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia. It is a member of the Capparaceae family and is known for its edible flower buds, which are used to make the well-known condiment, capers.

The caper bush is a small shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It has round, thick, and shiny leaves that are up to 8 centimeters long. The flowers are white to pinkish and have four petals. The flower buds, which are the edible part of the plant, are harvested before they open and are pickled in vinegar or salt.

Apart from its culinary use, the caper bush also has medicinal properties. The roots, leaves, and bark of the plant are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, inflammation, and skin disorders.

Caper bushes are hardy and can tolerate drought and heat. They are commonly grown in the Mediterranean region, where they thrive in rocky soil and coastal regions. The plant has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia and the Americas, where it is grown commercially for its edible flower buds.