Caper Bush, Capparis Spinosa, 20 Seeds (Edible Flowers) Caper Bush is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in the driest, hottest sites, often with little soil and water. It is a low sprawling shrub that grows to 2 feet with many-branches, alternate semi-succulent dark green leaves, round to ovate in shape. From May through early fall the plant produces small pinkish flower buds, which are harvested and used commercially as capers. If left unpicked these flower buds form sweetly fragrant, pinkish-white flowers which open in the morning and close in the afternoon. The flowers are have four sepals and four white to pinkish-white petals, many long violet-colored stamens and a single stigma usually rising well above the stamens. QTY: 20 SEEDS As an ornamental plant, Caper bushes can be an attractive groundcover, specimen or container plant. In order to successfully grow them in a garden setting, soil needs to be amended significantly, preferably with small rocks and sand. In a container it requires plenty of perlite. The plants prefer to be grown lean, with very little fertilizer or water. Overwatering is a sure way to kill them quickly. Growing them on rock walls or at the top of amended mounds will help keep them happy and healthy. Flowers are born on first-year branches, so lightly pruning will give a healthier and bushier plant. Capers of commerce are immature flower buds which have been pickled in vinegar or preserved in granular salt. Semi-mature fruits (caperberries) and young shoots with small leaves may also be pickled for use as a condiment. Capers have a sharp piquant flavor and add pungency, a peculiar aroma and saltiness to foods, such as pasta sauces, pizza, fish, meats and salads. The flavor of caper may be described as being similar to that of mustard and black pepper. To make capers, harvest flower blossoms in the morning immediately before flowering, wash in salted water repeatedly until any sand or grit is removed, then dry and salt down or pickle in vinegar. Zone: 8 to 11 (to 18 degrees F)