Graveblossom Tree

Description

The Graveblossom Tree does not seem to be a naturally occurring plant. Instead, its only known specimens arise as a result of the burial or entombment of Irogonian White Knights, sprouting from the burial site within a span of a single season and growing to the height of two metres within the first six months. The growth slows exponentially from this point, but does not have a known upper limit for size.

The Graveblossom Tree itself is a tree with a soft, papery bark similar to a Birch. Unsurprisingly given its origins, the bark is white. Due to the properties of the tree and its surroundings, very little is known about the wood of the Graveblossom Tree.

The Graveblossom Tree does not naturally bear fruit, however as the name suggests it produces a fragrant white blossom throughout the year. These blossoms are the source of the tree's pollen, and also the powerful soporific effect noted to surround them. The blossom is also mildly luminescent.

Habitat and Cultivation

The Graveblossom Tree does not have a particular habitat except that which has already been noted - it grows from the burial sites of Irogonian White Knights.

However, the Graveblossom Tree appears to have an effect on its surroundings, creating its own Habitat, referred to as a Lightgrove. Within a short span from the tree's sprouting, an area around the tree will become a lush meadow, full of flowering plants. The flowers seem to be those that would naturally be endemic to the area, or to nearby areas - the Graveblossom Tree seems to create an area of increased fertility for existing species, rather than introducing anything itself. Naturally, this bounty of plantlife attracts Fauna of all kinds. This area spreads rapidly, spreading a carpet of thick grass, flowers, and eventually sprouting bushes and other trees - though again only those naturally endemic to the area, rather than more Graveblossom Trees.

There are no known successful attempts to cultivate the Graveblossom Tree. Indeed, given the rapid expanse of its influence, efforts are usually directed to containment rather than cultivation.

Medicinal Properties

The blossom that the Graveblossom Tree is named for, and the pollen it produces, has a potent soporific effect. In fact, so powerful is this effect that it can form a hazard.

Once harvested, the blossom can be steeped into a tea. This tea is a mild stimulant, noted to lessen or remove the effects of exhaustion, hunger and even to treat depression and similar mental illnesses. It is also known to be effective for treating the symptoms of various maladies inflicted by Black Knights and their Blackstone weapons.

Dangers

The blossom of the Graveblossom Tree is a powerful soporific. Combined with the lush surroundings, the peaceful wild animals, and alleged phenomena caused by its connection to the White Knights, a Lightgrove can become a dangerous place for the unprepared, with affected individuals settling down into the grass to rest and sometimes never waking.