Jamaican Caper
Capparis cynophallophora
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Mar 9, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Jamaican Caper
Jamaican Caper (Quadrella jamaicensis) is a native Florida coastal tree or large shrub prized for its showy white-to-purple flowers with long stamens and attractive leathery foliage. It produces pendant fruit capsules that split open to reveal red-coated seeds, adding ornamental interest. A salt-tolerant species found naturally in coastal hammocks from South Florida through the Caribbean. Starting at $19.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- White, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Alkaline, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter. May need protection below 25°F. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Jamaican caper thrives in full sun to part shade in NE Florida. It tolerates a wide range of light conditions and performs well as an understory tree or in open sunny locations.
Highly drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida's sandy soils. Water regularly during establishment; thereafter, natural rainfall is generally sufficient except during extended droughts.
Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils including sandy, alkaline coastal soils. Responds vigorously to fertilization; apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage growth.
Similar needs
Live Oak
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Wild Lime
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Firebush
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Florida Privet
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Quailberry
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Silverthorn
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
You may also like
Common questions
Is Jamaican Caper a good plant for St. Augustine?
Jamaican Caper is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 6-20 feet × 8-12 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.