Any of the low prickly shrubs that make up the genus Capparis (family Capparaceae), of the Mediterranean region. The European caperbush (C. spinosa) is known for its flower buds, which are pickled in vinegar and used as a spicy condiment. The term caper also refers to one of the pickled flower buds or young berries. Buds of C. decidua are eaten as potherbs, and curries (curry) are prepared from seeds and fruits of C. zeylandica.