Blood Cap

An antiquated but potent component of the older brews of potions of healing. More druidic and less wealthy potions makers will still use them in the creation of their health droughts.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Capped in a red pigment with orange flesh underneath. The top of the veil has sticky spots on top of them the color and consistency often compared to "congealed blood".

Biological Traits

Helps push healing in a magical way. Eaten whole, a mature blood cap is poisonous in that is causes a hyper healing effect that causes too much flesh mending.

Genetics and Reproduction

Blood caps only grow on fresh rot. Despite the name, they don't need to grow on flesh. They spread by the process of spores which land on living things and only sprout when the thing the spores are on is dead. This means that a living creature can have spores on them and not know. Only in death does the blood cap grow.

Growth Rate & Stages

First few months are the juvenile stage, generally spreading it's spores 4-6 months after first sprouting.

Ecology and Habitats

Around the equator in regions that don't get cold snaps. Heavily prefers shaded areas.

Dietary Needs and Habits

A dead being of some type. Has trouble growing on wood but flourishes on fruit and meat.

Biological Cycle

Spores can stay dormant in optimal weather for up to 6 months. Once they sprout on a dead body then they grow through their juvenile stage. Once fully grown and when disturbed by a passing creature or wind, they'll open up and spread their spores.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Used as a reagent in health potions that don't use magical distillation or more modern ingredients. Woodland druids and hags regularly use blood caps for their potion work. Potions made with blood caps have little in the way of side effects.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Has a sweet scent when in its juvenile stages but after it spreads its spore it doesn't have a distinct scent.

Scientific Name

Hemial Mescerium

Lifespan

6 months

Conservation Status

Wild and stable.

Average Height

2"