Matted Caper

capparis tomentosa

Also known as: ["Hairy Caper","Woolly Caper"]

Family: Capparaceae Genus: Capparis Category: Shrubs

Overview

A woody, climbing or sprawling shrub with hairy stems and leaves, native to tropical and subtropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Capparaceae
Genus: Capparis
Botanical Name: Capparis tomentosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Capparis tomentosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Capparis tomentosa can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Capparis tomentosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Capparis tomentosa if the soil is excessively moist, leading to the decay of roots and lower stems, which can ultimately kill the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Capparis tomentosa. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected or symptoms occur.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Capparis tomentosa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor dogs closely if they have access to the plant. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Capparis tomentosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves berries
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of leaves and berries. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Capparis tomentosa produce edible fruits?

A: The fruits are edible but not commonly consumed.

Q: How much sunlight does this plant require?

A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Is this plant suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: It is primarily an outdoor plant due to its climbing and sprawling habit.

Quick Reference
Family: Capparaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Sicilian Caper
View
Gum Capers
View
Oriental Caper
View
Shepherd's Tree
View