Swamp Amber (pal-us elec-tree)
Palus Electri
Deep in the swamps and marshes of Aolara grows palus electri, commonly known as swamp amber. It is famous for its golden amber-like pods that sprout from a spikey duel leaf base. Swamp amber is usually found growing on the banks of wetland pools and rivers, sometimes in full view, other times partially submerged with only its amber buds visible. Swamp amber is categorised as a carnivorous plant. Studies show that it excretes a sweet smelling sap from its amber pods, to lure in all manner of swamp insects. The combination of its sugary smell and golden colouration entice a variety of insects to land and gorge themselves on the excretion. Little to late they find themselves stuck; glued to the buds by the very same sap that lured them. Gradually the prey is engulfed and swallowed into the amber pod to be dissolved.
Swamp amber is surprisingly resilient and difficult to extract. Not only did it get its name for resembling the look of amber, but also for resembling its solidity. It takes a large amount of force to shatter and crush a swamp amber pod. Once successfully crushed, botanists have found that the residue can be boiled and consumed to provide its drinker with a surprising burst of physical resilience for up to an hour. If the amber pod is not crushed finely enough, it is said to feel as though you are swallowing shattered glass.
Swamp amber is surprisingly resilient and difficult to extract. Not only did it get its name for resembling the look of amber, but also for resembling its solidity. It takes a large amount of force to shatter and crush a swamp amber pod. Once successfully crushed, botanists have found that the residue can be boiled and consumed to provide its drinker with a surprising burst of physical resilience for up to an hour. If the amber pod is not crushed finely enough, it is said to feel as though you are swallowing shattered glass.
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