It is a semi-woody shrub of variable morphology depending on the variety and growing conditions, but usually does not exceed 50 cm in height, with branches initially erect but with a tendency to spread later prostrate at ground level over an area of several square meters. It has alternate and simple leaves, entire, petiolate, thick and rounded. The branches have sharp and woody stipules, transformed into thorns, up to 1 cm long, which make the harvesting of capers very difficult and laborious.