Dragonsbane

Dragonsbane is a poisonous developed by the Iron Order. It's particularly potent against draconic creatures.
Ingesting parts of this plants causes mild stomach irritation, and is often distilled into a more potent extract that can cause vomiting and internal bleeding in humanoids. The effects in draconic creatures are far worse, swelling of the throat, fever, a burning sensation in the gut and possible death to lesser drakes. Most dragons are hardy enough to not be killed, but the extract is still potent enough to greatly ease the process or harming or slaying a dragon.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Appears as a small thorny bush, with small dusky red leaves.

Growth Rate & Stages

Dragonsbane reaches maturity within 3 weeks of germination. The branches change from pale green to a woody texture and appearance. Thorns begin to grow in the second week. By the time the leaves have gone from rosey pink to dusky red, the plant is mature and now toxic enough for poisoning.
Once reaching maturity, dragonsbane may continue to spread, roots branching out and sprouting new plants elsewhere. During harsh weather the outer, younger plants are left to die, as the core plants reserves its food supply for itself.

Ecology and Habitats

Dragonsbane requires little water and light to survive, lying dormant until the environment is able to sustain it again. Though capable of surviving in harsh environments, in fertile lands it flourishes. Considered an annoying weed for the most part in Aven's Hold.

Additional Information

Domestication

Through the Iron Order's efforts of cultivating plants they found that held some toxicity to dragons, they created Dragonsbane. The redder leaves are a visual indicator of the improved toxicity. The plants ability to grow almost anywhere also came from careful cultivation, as Iron Order bases often existed in remote, rugged locations.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Dragonsbane has one use, and that is the production of Dragonsbane Extract. Few can recognise the plant for what it is, and even fewer have reason to use it.

Conservation Status

Uncommon. Found rarely outside of Iron Order bases and the city of Aven's Hold.