Mariana caper
Capparis mariana

Family: Capparaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It grows 1-3 m tall. The leaves are simple and alternate. The flowers occur singly. They are white and have a scent. The fruit are berries.

There are about 250 Capparis species. There are about 50 Capparis species in tropical America. This may be a synonym of Capparis spinosa.

Where it is found

A tropical plant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Cook Islands, Fiji, Guam, Hawaii, Marianas, Nauru, Pacific, Philippines, Rotuma, SE Asia, Solomon Islands

How it is used for food

The flower buds are used as a flavouring. They are also used for pickles.

Edible parts

Flower buds, fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Alcaparro. Alcaparro de Marianas, Dawang, Periro

Synonyms

Capparis cordifolia Lam. Capparis sandwicensis Walp.; Capparis sandwichiana DC.; Capparis sandwichiana var. zoharyi O. Deg. & I. Deg.; Capparis spinosa var. mariana (Jacq.) K. Schum.;