A study of brachysclereids in two members of Capparidaceae namelyCapparis andCrataeva reveals certain points of taxonomic interest. Three species ofCapparis, i.e.,C. grandis L. F.,C. sepiaria L. F. andC. horrida, and one species ofCrataeva, i.e.,C. religiosa Forst. show some similarities as well as differences in the distribution, structure and ontogeny of sclereids. InCapparis, brachysclereids have a more regular pattern of distribution in the stem and leaves. InCrataeva they are absent in leaves. InCapparis brachysclereids are simple, with very closely lamellated secondary wall devoid of pit-canals. There are some disorganised contents in the lumen. They develop from parenchymatous cells having dense protoplasmic contents which are differentiated as sclereid initials. InCrataeva sclereid initials are large empty cells, produced generally after the activity of secondary cambium has begun. The sclereids are very thick-walled, with numerous pit-canals and no contents. The differences in the sclereid features are helpful in distingishing these two genera.