Capparaceae
Capparis viminea
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This scrambling shrub or small tree can grow up to 5 metres tall and is armed with sharp, paired hooked thorns. Its elliptic or rhomboid leaves are thinly textured, shiny above, and hairless. It produces white or cream flowers, typically solitary or in small clusters, which have numerous long stamens. The fruits are globose berries, about 1 cm in diameter, containing 1-2 seeds. Historically, its roots have been used in traditional medicine for various ailments but are considered poisonous.
Where it works in Kilifi
This adaptable species thrives in coastal scrub, bushland, and forest edges, suggesting it tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. It can be planted as a scrambling shrub or small tree in restoration projects or as part of a dense, thorny hedge in a Kilifi garden.
Growing notes
Given its natural habitat, this plant is likely drought-tolerant once established. It is known to have long, flexible shoots. Caution should be exercised as the roots are considered poisonous.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, zimbabweflora.co.zw, jstor.org, africanplantdatabase.ch, nih.gov, kew.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.