Metalvine

Metalvines are an very rare plant grown primarily in extremely hot and humid regions of Ruten. They're known for their metallic petals and their potent aerial poison, which is strong enough to kill the average adult with a single puff of pollen.

Basic Information

Anatomy

A metalvine plant grows an average of 2-3 thick stems, each with short green leaves and a flower or bud at the end. The flowers themselves are usually a dark metallic blue or indigo and grow anywhere between five and eight petals.

Genetics and Reproduction

Metalvines reproduce only once a year, on the first hot day of the year. During this time the metalvine buds will close up completely and begin to store up water from both the humidity of the air and any rainfall that may be present in the region. This water, when combined with the heat and the constant addition of more water, will grow to extremely high pressures inside of the bud. This will eventually cause the water to burst from the bud at high velocities, spraying a jet of steam and pollen that is usually carried away by the wind. This allows for the pollination of any nearby metalvines, which causes the bud to close up once again as seeds are formed inside and water reforms inside of it. The seeds are fired off in a similar manner to the pollen, though due to the proportionately higher weight of the seeds they often travel much shorter distances before landing and rooting themselves.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Metalvines are an incredibly resilient plant, being able to grow in sand and even occasionally on rocks.

Biological Cycle

In areas that support colder winters but still allow the metalvine to grow during the summer, the flowers will wilt and collapse. However, the seeds often remain alive under the dirt, sprouting again when the weather becomes warmer.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Metalvines are primarily used in aerial poisons, the most notable of which is Choke Dust.

Lifespan

Metalvines can grow from the same seed for up to 5 years.

Conservation Status

Certain druidic tribes have taken to protecting these rare flowers, making sure their dangerous pollination process goes smoothly and using the poisons from the flower in various weaponry.

Average Height

Though this varies depending on region and the fertility of the soil, a metalvine usually grows to be about half a foot tall.