Capparis hereroensis
Family: Capparaceae
What it is like
A thorny shrub. It grows up to 2 m high. The leaf stalks are long. The leaves are alternate and narrowly oval. They have a spine at the tip. The leaves are 3-6 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. They are leathery and hairy. The flowers are cream and turn red. They occur singly in the axils of leaves. They are 3-4 cm across. The fruit are berries. They are 4 cm long. They have dark green lines on the surface.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It suits hot arid places. It can grow in areas with a rainfall less than 50 mm per year. It grows in sandy soils. It grows between 4-30 m above sea level. It grows along the coast. It can grow in arid places. It traps wind blown sand and form hummocks.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Namibia, Southern Africa
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten raw.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Mudyangwe, Sirub