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Jamaican caper
Scientific Name: Capparis cynophallophora
Family: Capparaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Jamaican Caper (Capparis cynophallophora)
The Jamaican Caper, scientifically known as Capparis cynophallophora, is a captivating plant appreciated for its aesthetic and ecological contributions. It's a native species in South Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America. It is often used as a hedge.
Common Names
- Jamaican Caper
- Jamaica Caper-tree
- Black Caper
- Black-Willow
- Bois Cac
- Burro Prieto
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Capparis cynophallophora
- Family: Capparaceae (also referenced as Capparidaceae)
- Synonyms: Capparis cyanophallophora, Capparis cynophallophora L.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the neotropics, specifically coastal regions of South Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America.
- Naturally inhabits mangrove forests and coastal hammocks.
- Also grown ornamentally in gardens.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Characterized as an evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 6 to 20 feet.
- The leaves are light green on the upper surface with fine brown scales below, oval-shaped, and glossy. Young leaves are folded together.
- Grows approximately 1 foot per year.
Ecological Role
- Serves as a valuable resource for migratory birds, providing a place to rest.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Attracts insects such as the Big Eye Wasp (Chrysomya megacephala) and honeybees (Apis mellifera).
Quirky Facts
- The species name "cynophallophora" was given due to the plant's 6-inch-long pods, which were said to resemble a dog's… well, you get the idea.