Crystal Tulip
It appears this article is a stub! Alert the author if you'd like to see it expanded.
This article is a work in progress! Expect more content to be added.
This article was created for my Species-A-Day project for 2024! Read more here!
The crystal tulip is a flowering plant native to the dewdrop peaks, though it can also be found in Starhome. The species is named for its white petals that turn transparent in moonlight; to certain cultures, it is a symbol of delicate and fleeting beauty.
Anatomy
The petals of the crystal tulip are a cool white colour in the daylight, and become a crystal-esque clear under the light of Etharai's moon. These petals are incredibly soft to the touch, though the oils found on the skin of most species is harmful to the petals, and can cause them to weaken and tear. They are incredibly thin, as well, and thus they rarely remain intact for long periods of time. Their leaves and vines are a cool, almost pastel green, and are similarly thin and delicate.Ecology & Habitat
The crystal tulip can only survive in low-oxygen environments, incapable of growing any lower in altitude than the dewdrop peaks. They do, however, require a small amount of oxygen to survive, and so in Starhome they are most commonly found in the border between Nightside and Dayside of the station.Uses & Byproducts
The crystal tulip does not have many uses, though it is considered an incredibly beautiful flower, so is often preserved in glass casing or other methods of preserving the plant, and used as decorations in Starhome. Some even grow live crystal tulip plants around their homes, and pride themselves on their ability to maintain and keep the plant alive. The plant, while technically edible, tastes not too dissimilar to water, and has little nutritional value. Because of this, it is rarely found in the cuisine of those who live in areas where the crystal tulip can be found.
Geographic Distribution
Ohh, these sound so beautiful. I can see why people would want to preserve them. I love the idea of watching them slowly turn transparent under moonlight.