The caper bush, an exquisite flower

The caper bush is a well-known shrub that grows on walls and rocks close to the sea, such as those found at Punta Nati. Its roots and bark can be used as a diuretic. The flower buds, known as capers, and the fruits, known as caper berries, are pickled and used in sauces and salads.

Today, the caper bush is also grown as an ornamental garden plant. In Mallorca, it is cultivated among almond groves.

Two varieties of caper bush grow in Menorca: the male caper bush, Capparis spinosa subsp. spinosa, which has thorns, and the female caper bush, subsp. rupestris, which has no thorns.

Small, round, firm and bright green capers are traditionally considered the most desirable.

Properties of the plant

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A decoction made from the bark of the caper bush root is used as a diuretic and has traditionally been taken to help with arthritis and conditions affecting the spleen and liver.

Capers contain vitamins A, C and E, as well as minerals including potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Pickled capers

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Gather the small flower buds, wash them thoroughly with water and leave them to drain.

Some people soak them for a few hours in salted water to reduce their bitterness.

Place them in jars and cover them with good-quality vinegar. Add a pinch of salt and season with a bay leaf, thyme and garlic. Check the jars every two days, stir the contents and top up with vinegar whenever necessary.

In the past, capers were preserved throughout the year in large earthenware jars filled with salt. Before being eaten, they were soaked in water for a day.

Caper berries are harvested in July and can be pickled in the same way as capers.