Razor Vine

Thorns by max.icons

A semi-sapient vine-like plant with razor-like barbs that relax when calm or extend when threatened. The barbs are used to shred anything the plant comes in contact with, as the vine whips around like an unrestrained high-pressure hose.
The vines tend to be very long, growing up to 20 meters in length. But the circumference is thin in comparison, only growing to the width of a human's wrist. They are a hearty species able to withstand extremes in temperatures, from very hot and humid to several degrees below freezing.

Basic Information

Genetics and Reproduction

The most common way is by voluntary samples from the host. It is thought that new sapient vines are created by an overabundance of ki in an area, giving them life, self-awareness, movement, and control over their thorns.

Growth Rate & Stages

Vine by Freepik

Growth is about 3 meters a year, so they can compete with anything that might attack them. (Though, researchers are unsure why anyone would be so foolish.)

Ecology and Habitats

Warm, humid forest regions.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Nitrogen-rich fertilizer in a loamy soil. They can leave their pot. But need to return to it every few days to feed.

Additional Information

Domestication

From sprigs volunteered by a parent plant that trusts a human with its offspring. (Rare.)

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Some theorized that they may be employed to help with the paper recycling industry. But attempts to persuade any beings of this species have met with failure. Is it that they are too stubborn or simply wish to live freely?

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Vines by max.icons

Razor vines don't have any apparent sensory organs, but researchers have been able to confirm they hear, feel, smell, and taste. They also detect their surroundings, but researchers hotly debate whether this counts as sight or not.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Razor vines prefer to live with a tree that has a Kodama, so they can have company. Do they communicate? Likely, though researchers are unsure how.

Discovered by

the Ohno clan in the 1700s

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Tsukumogami

Lifespan

100+ years

Conservation Status

Unknown. At least uncommon.

Related Ethnicities

• Yokai

Appears In:

Click book/story to read.

Liminal Chronicles Books

Short Stories

by Amy Winters-Voss

Chou becomes Ohno-chan's pet by Amy Winters-Voss

Initiation by AWV

Nakamura's Dream by AWV + Flaticon.com icons

Fujimori and the Fox by AWV + Flaticon.com icons

Misunderstandings by AWV + Flaticon.com icons

by AWV

Liminal Chronicles Series bookcover art by Odette.A.Bach and text by Amy Winters-Voss. Short story bookcovers by Amy Winters-Voss