Capparaceae - Botanical Family

Crateva religiosa is similar to Crateva adansonii but creamy white flowers are slightly smaller.

A small tree ranging from 10-20 ft tall, Crateva tapia is native to tropical America. It's an ethnomedical used in Ayurvedic medicine.

It can withstand full sun and enjoys regular water, however it will also do okay with moderate water. Its white and off-white flowers attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Its fruits are edible but not particularly tasteful.

In USDA zone 9-11, this plant does well in pots, containers, and in ground. Actual size depends on how much pruning has been done. Yearly pruning will help maintain a nice size and shape. A trained eye can help sculpt Crateva tapia into a healthy topiary shape.

In cold regions, it's best grown in containers with soil that has plenty of drainage. Leaves will also need to be covered when frost is expected. When temperatures rise, remind yourself not to forget fertilizer every once in a while. Be sure to choose one formulated for flowering plants for the best results.

Crateva tapia does need consistent maintenance by way of trimming, pruning, and well draining soil. If you provide these things, you'll be rewarded with a beautiful, small tree that is sure to bring color to your outdoor space with its white and off-white blossoms.

Cynophalla flexuosa, or Limber Caper, is a native of Central America, known for its hardy foliage and long-lasting, white to off-white flowers. This plant can grow as either a large shrub of 5-10 ft tall or as a high climbing woody vine, though it may rarely appear as a small tree.

The small petals of the flowers are only 1.5 cm long, and in full bloom, the shrub often creates an eye-catching display. Not only does this plant make for a flourish of beauty in the garden, but it is also tolerant of somewhat harsher environments, such as those found near the ocean or with higher levels of salt in the soil. This makes it a great choice for those landscaping in seaside areas.

Cynophalla flexuosa is a fast grower and can even be kept in a pot in colder regions - so long as it has the right conditions. It prefers to grow in full sun or semi-shade, and while it's not particularly thirsty, it will still need moderate levels of water supplied on a regular basis.

In terms of its hardiness, this plant is easily grown in USDA zones 9-11. It is also very easy to propagate through cuttings and does not require any pruning, save for the rare instance of shaping a shrub or vine.

For some extra care, it's a good idea to avoid heavy, wet soils and to apply a layer of mulch in the fall for winter protection. All in all, Cynophalla flexuosa is an eye-catching addition to any garden, and its considerable hardiness makes it an ideal choice for a variety of climates and growing conditions.

The fruits are edible and are fermented to make an alcoholic drink.