Ladder-Reed
Ladder-reed is a perennial reed-grass indigenous to Balaqalneyis, specifically the Laqalney River and the Fareale Oasis along its eastern bank, but is also present along other riverbanks and wetland. It grows thickly and tolerates changes in moisture levels well.
It has become a crucial crop due to its inner fibers, which are milled into coarseweave. Both the milled fibers and woven cloth are key exports for Balaqalneyis in particular.
Basic Information
Anatomy
A thick, straight reed growing in thick carpets of approximately two feet in height; root systems are shallow and tend to mesh together, occasionally enabling a reed-carpet to float.
Biological Traits
Reeds are a dull greenish-brown with tawny banding at each growth node. In the early Season of Opening slightly taller flower stalks appear with crowns of yellow-white flowers; although not common or necessary to their reproduction, occasionally these will produce pale blue and lilac 'hips'.
Ecology and Habitats
Prefers sandy, moist soil, but can tolerate droughts and lack of regular water for up to a season before significant die-back occurs; if necessary the plants will die down to a shorter height or reduce the spread of an interlinked colony to conserve nutrients.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Inner fibers are used for coarseweave. Though its use in cloth-making is the primary destination for the reeds, they can also be used in light construction, furnishings, or basket-weaving. The hips are edible, and often minced / finely chopped to use as a mild seasoning (known as reedpearl) in Qalneyan cuisine.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Primarily Balaqalneyis, but can also be found along other rivers.
Lifespan
50+ Years
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Average Height
2ft
Geographic Distribution
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