Arcanophage

Arcanophages, also known as witch trees or mage's bane are a species of softwood tree known for their unique ability to absorb and metabolize magical energy from their surroundings. They are found exclusively in the Forest of the Ancients, from where they have been spread across the world and kept for their unique properties.

Description

Arcanophages superficially resemble trees of the birch family, with smooth trunks of white-and-black bark which peels away in shreds. They are however quite diminutive, only ever reaching heights of 15 or so feet. They have delicate brances and leaves, from which hang long whiskers or strands, light enough to whip around in a mild breeze.

Ecology

Arcanophages are found exclusively in the dark depths of the Forest of the Ancient on Mundus Major. They are found there in great numbers, blooming all year round due to the vast amounts of residual magic in their natural environment.
These trees have been moved to other parts of Mundus, where they will survive and continue to grow as in their native environment, but they refuse to bloom unless subjected to great amounts of magical energy which they can absorb. Thus they are notoriously difficult to reproduce, which fuels a lucrative trade for the importing of these trees from The Forest.

Properties

The trees are valued for their ability to absorb magic. Trees with a steady supply of it are able to grow at a miraculous rate, and it is absolutely essential for their reproduction.
Any spells cast in its immediate vicinity (or even better yet, in direct contact with its tendrils) is channeled inside and its energy harmlessly discharged within the tree instead of its intended target.

Uses

Besides being spectacular and exotic trees, arcanophages have seen some practical use as well. Their ability to absorb magic has made them popular protective elements within public spaces, homes of wealthy individuals and and rulers. Careful placement of these trees protects from spells cast at a distance, assassins bearing enchantments of invisibility and other such threats of magical nature.
They are also used to build living cages for captured spellcasters. Any attempt by a mage to break out of their arcanophagic bonds is met with spells is met with an ever tighter, crushing grip on their delicate bodies.