Henna Tree

Written by Salen

The Henna tree is a type of Coniferous tree that grows in the Forest of S'ren . Mature Henna trees lack branches on the lower half of their trunks. Henna trunks taper as they rise above 100 feet, forming a rounded top where individual branches sweep downward. Their green leaves are small, scale-like, and arranged in spirals. Both male and females cones are carried on the same tree. In contrast to their size, Henna trees have extremely small cones — about 1 1/2 inches long. They have appropriately large root systems, extending 150 feet and intertwining with the roots of other henna trees. Baby Henna's often sprout at their parents' base, latching onto their roots for nutrients. For this reason, they often grow in circular clusters sometimes called fairy rings.

Coexisting

The Henna tree is resistant to fire, root rot, and other diseases that affect most trees. It's hardwood is not easy to break or cut, and proves to be sturdy even when thin. For this reason the elven cities built around these massive trees are solid and completely safe. Sculpted with elemental magic, the trees feel no pain and continue to grow around any building they are a apart of.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Mainly thought of as elven trees, these tallest of trees reach heights of more than 350 feet (107 m). Henna trees can achieve a diameter of 24 feet (7 m), and 1.6 million lbs. (725,700 kg). Henna's can live to be 2,000 years old and have graced Tamia since even the faeries can remember.

Ecology and Habitats

Thrives within 150 miles from any coastline, typically in high rain environments

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Northwestern forests

by Sören Meding

Scientific Name

Kingdom: Plant, Order: Pinales, Family: Cupressaceae, Scientific Name: Henna, Higher Class: Hennaideae

Lifespan

2,000 years

Average Height

350'

Average Weight

1.6 million lbs

Magical Thirst

The Henna tree gets its water from rain and requires consistent rainfall throughout the year. They can actually "create" their own rain by trapping fog in their lofty branches for later. Elven Mages speculate that the Henna tree can do this by absorbing the water element and communicating directly with it in a language we cannot understand. With the right amount of moisture, Henna trees can grow two or three feet in a year, making them one of the fastest-growing conifers known.