Caper family
(Synonym: Family Capparaceae)
Description
A family of herbs, shrubs and trees that is closely related to the Family Cruciferae (Capparidaceae 1).
The leaves are alternate, simple or compound, with stipules that are sometimes spiny. The flowers are usually borne in racemes. There are 4 or more petals and sepals, 4-6 or more stamens and a superior ovary. The fruit is a berry, nut or drupe.
There are about 45 genera occurring in tropical and warm temporate regions.
Use
The unopened flower buds of Capparis are cooked and pickled and used as a flavouring (Capparidaceae 2).
Described species
Capparis spinosa, capers