Shimmer Tree

Basic Information

Anatomy

The shimmer trees are on the smaller side of trees, being rarely more than 20 feet tall, but with a wide network of branches, often being as wide as it is tall. The trunk of the tree is thick, with its girth often being between 2.5 meters. The tree looks somewhat like a smaller hawthorn tree, but without any berries. The leaves of the shimmer tree are often a light teal in color and the bark is white with black veins in it.

Growth Rate & Stages

The shimmer trees grow very slowly, being considered a mature tree after 35 years. This, however, can change based on where the shimmer tree is planted. The trees grow at a quicker rate in places with higher magical potency, such as ley lines and especially ley line crossings, but have also been known to grow faster in places where magic is commonly used or a powerful magical event has occured. In such places, the size of the shimmer trees can grow to exponential sizes, and a maximum size for a shimmer tree is such condition is yet unknown, but a large tree in Hrimland where the Skysplitter mountain once stood has grown to an impressie 75 feet tall.

Ecology and Habitats

Shimmer trees are very resilient and can grow in most environments as long as there is some source of magic there. Shimmer trees have a very difficult time reproducing as a single tree produces very few seeds each year, and the seeds must be given a certain amount of magic to begin sprouting. This means that the seeds of the shimmer trees can lay dormant in the earth for years before starting to grow as their need for magic must be fulfilled before starting to grow. Once the tree has begun to grow, it is not reliant upon magic, but it helps it grow faster and larger, but is not required. The tree can grow in harsh environments and weather with little issue once it has begun to grow its roots.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The shimmer tree is highly sought after by most spellcasters and alchemists because of its many uses. The wood of the tree is excellent for wands or staffs, while the sap of the tree can enhance the effects and potency for most potions and poisons.

Scientific Name

Coruscus monogyna

Lifespan

400 - 500 years