Varuus Thistle
"It doesn't much matter what ailment or injury plagues you. If you add Varuus Thistle to the treatment it's bound to help whether you know why or not."
-Marion Delaria, druid of the Fallen Hills circle, 1116 C.C.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The plant resembles a long string of pale green moss dotted with red. It will begin collecting along the underside of a tree branch and begin to grow downwards in a shape many agree resembles a man's beard, thus it's received the moniker 'Old Green's beard' in many regions.
Growth Rate & Stages
The moss begins to form along tree branches very quickly in the right conditions but grows slowly as it extends into it's characteristic 'beard-like' stage. It's general practice to allow it to grow as long as possible before use as it's healing qualities are increased by the age of the plant. After harvesting the moss is either chopped or ground to be used in poultices or sometimes burned to create a smoke that is said to be good for the body.
Many advanced healers and mages will grind the moss into powder and use it in the creation of healing potions and other items.
Ecology and Habitats
Varuus Thistle can be found in many places across Senea but shows particular vigor in the dry temperate woodlands. It's been known to grow moderately well in arid desert environments and doesn't require large amounts of water to flourish, however it shows an aversion to low temperatures and can be hard to find in the northern reaches. Because of this healing potion prices are known to be higher in the north and more regional alternative healing methods have been developed.
Priests and clerics of Delana are known to cultivate the moss at their temples, as well as bringing it to new areas to try and start a new native population. The Silver Tower's enclave keeps an enormous tree outside their gates which grows the moss in abundance, and is used for their wizardly business as well as open to public use. However the tree is guarded by Spellknights to ensure nobody takes too much.
Origin/Ancestry
Legend has it that the lower god Varuus gifted this plant of his own making to the first people's of the world to heal and mend their injuries. He has since been worshiped by druids and healers of all kinds as the patron of deity of healing and medicine.
Remove these ads. Join the Worldbuilders Guild
Comments