Matōtara (Tree)

The cluster of islands that comprise the continent of Kohoruna are teeming with life, and while they're most well known for their aquatic flora and fauna, the inland wilds are nothing to scoff at. The Tōtara tree is one of the most common trees to sprout here, and provides a constant source of wood for construction and heat, though the most valuable resource on hand to the local tribes is actually it's cousin, the Matōtara. Where the Ttōtara grows to around 25 metres tall, the Matōtara pushes toward 40 on average, and is much more sturdy than it's cousin. Properly treated, carved Matōtara wood can be used as a suitable replacement for iron, though it retains the natural buoyant quality of most wood, and isn't susceptible to rust.
To that end, Matōtara wood is most commonly used in crafting weapons for the Toa'ana Tribes, as well as their famed war ships, locally referred to as Waka Taua. These vessels were often 40 metres feet long, and though most were built low to the waves and propelled by oarsmen, larger vessels more in line with traditional cargo ships are not completely unheard of. Built with treated Matōtara wood, these vessels were nigh unsinkable when faced with traditional weapons, and (assuming the speed was sufficient) were known to punch holes in larger foreign vessels.
The Matōtara isn't as plentiful as it's cousin, or the more mundane trees of the islands, but they also hold the distinction of being used to carry an entire village. Indeed, the village of Rakaurunga is nestled in the treetops itself, in the centre of the largest jungle on the continent, and the sheer height of the Matōtara makes it all but unassailable by conventional means.
The untapped potential of the Matōtara has even made itself known in the far off continent of Teikokami, where the Empire's more industrious citizens have previously raided the Islands for it, to then use it in the construction of it's mechanical servant class, the Arcanists.

Basic Information

Anatomy

On average, Matōtara trees grow to 40 metres in height, and 5 metres in diameter. It features a high natural oil content, which helps to prevent rot, and it's golden brown bark peels off in papery flakes to reveal a steely grey wood. It's leaves are sharp, dull green and needle-like.

Scientific Name

Podocarpus Matōtara

Conservation Status

The Matōtara is sacred, and for every tree felled, a prayer is held while two more are planted in it's place. The Toa'ana know how much their way of life depends on the availability of this strong wood, and know that it must remain available in times of need. It's not uncommon for arcane or natural guardians to protect them when the Toa'ana are absent.