Bloodreed Lily

Visual Description

The Bloodreed Lily (Lilium sanguis) is a striking swamp-dwelling plant known for its reed-like stalk and vivid, fiery-red flowers. Each bloom forms a trumpet-shaped lily with petals so thin they seem spun from silk, veined with darker red lines that converge at the base. When night falls, the flower emits a soft, reddish glow—an effect caused by the plant’s emission of magical particles, believed to attract nocturnal pollinators such as dusk-moths and fenfire beetles.  

Habitat and Growth

Typically reaching a height of 5 to 6 feet, the Bloodreed Lily thrives in acidic, water-logged environments such as marshes and peat bogs. It prefers filtered sunlight, flourishing in open glades where the canopy breaks, and propagates both through delicate seeds and thick, underwater tubers that burrow into the soil. The scent is earthy and pungent, often compared to the air after heavy rainfall—an aroma said to linger even after drying.   Despite its striking appearance, the Bloodreed Lily is often mistaken for the similar Swampfire Rose. While the latter bears thorned stems and waxier blooms, the untrained eye may confuse the two, especially in low light.  

Alchemical Use and Preparation

The Bloodreed Lily holds a revered place in alchemical healing, particularly in the crafting of restorative salves, tonics, and poultices. Its nectar, collected during the late morning hours when concentration is highest, contains a volatile compound that accelerates cell regeneration when properly distilled. Alchemists warn, however, that raw application of the nectar may cause irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.   Proper storage involves sealing the fresh nectar or dried petals in cool, dark conditions, ideally within wax-lined glass vials or treated linen sachets. Exposure to direct heat or sunlight can diminish its magical properties.  

Warnings and Curiosities

Overuse of the lily’s essence—especially in unrefined form—has been known to produce localized swelling or mild rashes. There are accounts of reckless hedge-healers applying raw nectar to battle wounds, resulting in painful skin blistering rather than relief.   Some rare reports mention a phenomenon called "overbinding," where an over-concentration of lily extract caused the patient’s healing process to accelerate uncontrollably, forming calloused or malformed tissue. As such, precision in dosage is essential.  

Historical Notes and Folklore

Though the Bloodreed Lily is now commonplace in druidic circles, it was once rare and reserved for temple rites. In borderland legends, warriors speak of marshland battles where healers smeared this crimson nectar across wounds mid-combat, allowing fighters to rise again before the clash was done.   One enduring tale tells of a healer who sang softly to the lilies as she worked—claiming the flowers pulsed brighter in response, as if listening. Whether myth or metaphor, few deny that the Bloodreed Lily holds an uncommon affinity with life itself.