Emel

Emel plants are tall flowering plants that are popular in many regions for their sweet fruit pods and peppery root tubes.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Emel plants grow to about 30 inches or .7 meters tall. The leaves have a wide, almost spade shape. The fruit pods that develop out of fertilized blooms appear brown-black and desiccated. They also exude a foul odor. Both of those are defense mechanisms against predators.
The plant has long tubular roots that can stretch several feet away from the main body of the plant and will send out runners to extend the reach of the main plant.

Genetics and Reproduction

Emel plants reproduce via the seeds in the fruit pods.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Both the fruit pods and the roots are prized in cooking and, in the case of the roots, for religious purposes. The fruit pods are rich in vitamins and their sweet flavor is used in many dishes from stews to soups.
The roots have a naturally hot pepper taste to discourage most insects. When harvested, dried and ground, the resulting powder is used as a seasoning in many foods across Fiven. The spice is also used on tabiks after the calligraphy has been applied. It is said that the spice is favored by the Saints and attracts their attention.