Biito (BEE-toh)
by hughpierre
Biitos are small slim trees that divide their trunk between long vine-like branches and stumpy leg-like roots.
Basic Information
Ecology and Habitats
Temperate Forest
Given its environment, biito can only find the space to grow in the wild under the shade of its larger neighbours. It does best in wild wet soil, black as pitch; but several cultivators attempt to replicate such conditions to mixed results.Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Aphrodisiac
The flower is cultivated as part of the raw materials typical in potent aphrodisiacs. A potion can be traded for 10 times its weight in silver. A kind of bitter, and lesser quantity, sap can be extracted from the roots that pregnant women should avoid. Elsewise, it will promote menstrual discharge when mixed with fruity wine.Civilization and Culture
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Host Trees
In the outpost's open fields, exposed to the relentless sun and unshielded from harsh winds, the delicate plants withered. Despite their best efforts - erecting makeshift shades and constantly misting the soil - the conditions were still far from ideal for the demanding plant. The biito seedlings, once lush, turned pale and brittle before their flowers could bloom. This lead to desperate overseers to start tapping the roots instead. As it would turn out, their roots were tightly intertwined with those of the giant trees they grew around in the wild. These extensive root systems provide some kind of nourishment that inevitably proved irreplaceable.
Lifespan
7 years
Conservation Status
Grown in the gardens of the Karafort
Average Height
Seedling: 15 - 20 cm
Adult: 3 - 5 ft
Adult: 3 - 5 ft
Average Physique
Seedling: 4 leaves, 2 vines and no budding fruits
Adult: Spherical bushes of leaves, multiple branches and yellow flowers
Adult: Spherical bushes of leaves, multiple branches and yellow flowers
Geographic Distribution
In response to the prompt Describe a species of plant that is commonly used as an aphrodisiac in your world.
Comments
Author's Notes
Botanica: Unofficial challenge