Aesrove (ACE-roav)
Aesrove is a common herb that has largely been domesticated at this stage in Icalaran history, but is found in nearly all rocky terrain of multiple countries in the wild. It resembles a cross between heather and lavender. In the wild it is typically very short, but domestic cultivars are taller and woodier.
Clumps of tough, narrow stems support feathery silver-green spikes of foliage; in the late Season of Opening into Season of Ripening thin leafless flower stalks emerge topped with short spikes of small flowers in shades of pink or violet. Both flowers and foliage have a sweet, earthy scent, and the flowers secrete copious nectar, making it a pollinator favorite.
Its oils and resins have been used for centuries, and it is commonly associated with abundance/fertility, peace, and the home.
Basic Information
Genetics and Reproduction
Prolific and easy reproduction by self-seed.
Ecology and Habitats
Generally prefers well-drained soil and rocky terrain, but is resilient enough not to be particular about an arid or more humid climate. Thrives with biting clover, which attracts and consumes horntail locust juveniles that like to feed on the aesrove.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Plenty of sunshine is ideal.
Additional Information
Domestication
One of the first plant species to be domestically cultivated. Its resilience and easy care make it desirable as a landscaping or personal garden plant, and its various uses have meant it is often cultivated on a larger scale as a crop. Companion-planting or other pest control is necessary to ensure best results. Natural, in-the-wild harvesting remains acceptable, but runs the risk of inadequate or inconsistent crops.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
As well as its culinary uses, its flowers and leaves can undergo a distillation process to produce an essential oil. Additionally, its stems and roots can be crushed to produce a resin that, when mixed with the essential oil, is often used for heavy-duty deodorizing and disinfecting; the calming scent makes it useful for burning in stables, especially for valsar and koza.
The essential oil is one of the three sacred anointing oils (hetul'n'gosh) used by Shepherds of Leaving when preparing a body for its Viewing.
If a Kivan tribe has access to it -- either from cultivated plants they can bring with them, or imported fresh or dried -- they often include it in their binddrought recipe, or may otherwise use it in the calming of their animals.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Throughout Icalar
Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms
Horntail locusts
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Average Height
(Wild) 5-8"
(Cultivars) 2-3ft
Geographic Distribution
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