Syrian Bean Caper

Zygophyllum fabago

Physical Characteristics

Zygophyllum fabago is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S.E. Europe. N. Africa to W. Asia - Syria to Afghanistan.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The flower buds are pickled and used as a caper substitute[2, 103, 105, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known