Tree
Jamaican Caper
Capparis cynophallophora
Varieties We Carry
StandardCapparis cynophallophora
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 9.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterLow
Mature size6-20 feet × 8-12 feet
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
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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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
Light
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.
Water
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.
Soil & Fertilizer
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.
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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.