Vigorous small evergreen perennial shrub; native to the Mediterranean basin and a component of the Mediterranean scrub, it can reach 80 cm height maximum and a more or less similar width. From the underground rhizome, creeping and branched, erect stems develop, partially lignified and dark green in color. From these richly branched primary aerial stems, secondary stems called "cladodes" come off, which are of the same color, have an ovate-sharp shape and leathery consistency and end with an apical spine: these "cladodes" that we normally confuse with the leaves, explicate the chlorophyll function and take the place of the real leaves which, in this plant, are deciduous and reduced to whitish scales inserted on the aerial stems. In spring, in the central part of the lower page of the cladodes, tiny greenish-yellow starry flowers appear which, being this dioecious species, can be male or female depending on the specimen in question. On female plants, in winter, the fruits ripen and appear as bright red globose berries.
Based on their properties and traits, we have selected the plants that pair best with your choice.
Our care tips
The secrets of a happy plant
Production
A growing cycle that values every detail
At Vivai Capitanio, every plant comes from a careful, sustainable growing process, built on more than 35 years of experience and innovation.
Production sites
Excellence in production, rooted in the land
Today, with nine production sites between the sea and the slopes of the Murgia, we grow a wide assortment of plants with passion.
A site sheltered from the wind, ideal for the more delicate species and for the early stages of growth.
On slightly higher ground, home to the more mature plants, ready for immediate effect.
A wide area above the gully, specialising in ornamental grasses.
Here the plants spend the longest phase of their growth before going to market.
A natural karst hollow, the perfect habitat for climbers and succulents.
The heart of the nursery: this is where the cuttings are raised and first potted on.
A recently acquired site with advanced greenhouses for plants with particular requirements.
A system of greenhouses and shade houses for species from warm climates or with low light requirements.
A site sheltered from the wind, ideal for the more delicate species and for the early stages of growth.
A Xylella-free site, created to offer customers production free of any restriction
Our services
Tailored services for your green spaces
At Vivai Capitanio we offer a complete range of services designed to meet the needs of garden centres, landscapers and green-space professionals.
We assemble each trolley with precision, so you get fresh plants without having to order large quantities.
We provide photographic labels with botanical information and planting suggestions, to show every plant at its best.
A display area where we present the best of our production, reserved for trade professionals.
A display area where we present the best of our production, reserved for trade professionals.
Let’s talk about your projects
Growing the right solutions together
Partner with a trusted name in the nursery industry. Our team is ready to understand your requirements and provide tailored solutions. Contact us for expert advice and personalised support from our specialists.
Experience and reliability
Efficient logistics
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.