Shadow Spruce

"Shadow Spruce"
Tall thin coniferous trees consisting of whorled branches and a conical form, with very dark green-black needles and long reddish pine cones. Said to grow on the spot where an undead creature was destroyed. Those entering the shade of a Shadow Spruce will feel 10 degrees colder than the shade of neighboring trees.

Basic Information

Anatomy

This coniferous evergreen tree can be distinguished from other members of the pine family by their needles, which are four-sided and attached singly to small peg-like structures on the branches, and by their cones (without any protruding bracts), which hang downwards after they are pollinated.

Genetics and Reproduction

Plant reproduction having both male and female pine cones, pollen is distributed by winds.

Growth Rate & Stages

75 to 200 feet tall. Usually about 1 foot a year but can be less due to harsh conditions.

Ecology and Habitats

The tree does not like hot, humid, summer weather or areas with dry, winter winds. Grows well in cool rocky areas with plenty of minerals and well rained soil. Initial growth must be on an area in which an undead creature was destroyed. Without which, the tree will not grow.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Resources are absorbed through a very wide branched root system. The tree does not like hot, humid, summer weather or areas with dry, winter winds. Grows well in cool rocky areas with plenty of minerals and well rained soil. Initial growth must be on an area in which an undead creature was destroyed. Without which, the tree will not grow.

Biological Cycle

Plants grow from pine nuts released from the pine cones. Pine needles are dropped periodically throughout the year and branches always appear to be full of needles.

Additional Information

Domestication

Impossible to grow domestically.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Due to the unusual growing requirements, people tend to avoid using this tree for any commercial means. However, this does not mean that individuals aren't looking for new and interesting ways to use this tree.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Found in the northern template and boreal (taiga) regions of the Earth, often rocky areas such as mountians. The tree does not thrive in hot, humid, summer weather or in areas with dry, winter winds.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Plant

Scientific Name

Picea Umbra

Lifespan

200 years, but 900 is not unheard of.

Conservation Status

Rare species, usually avoided.

Average Height

75 to 200 feet.

Average Physique

Tall, thin, conical form.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Dark brown bark with white sap, having very dark green-black needles and long reddish pine cones.