Clovewort
Basic Information
Anatomy
Clovewort is a small shrubby plant with dark reddish leaves. It produces pale yellow flowers, that in the dry season, harden into tough woody seed pods. The clovewort plant is incredibly toxic when consumed by most species, the exception being many species of birds and some dragons.
Genetics and Reproduction
The clovewort plant reproduces by producing seedpods during dry seasons, which often break away from the parent plant through wind, and in the wet season, are washed away by flood water, rain, or rivers. Once the wet season is near a close, the seed pods will have absorbed enough water to rupture, spreading the seeds over a wide area. The seeds quickly sprout into new adult plants. Some seeds are also spread by birds that may eat the pods.
Ecology and Habitats
Clovewort grows along marshy riverbanks, wetlands, and floodplains. It prefers loose soil that is easily waterlogged, but frequently drains. It is fed on by some species of birds.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Clovewort is considered a domesticated species, having been grown in India and southern Asia for many thousands of years as a spice by dragons. Its seeds are often used to make medicinal tea to treat upset stomachs, akin to ginger tea or ginger ale. Ground seeds are often used as a spice and a garnish that is particularly sought after by omnia. Neither species suffers the ill effects of the plants toxins, however, consuming the plant is incredibly dangerous for all other races. Its toxins can decrease blood pressure by a startling degree which may cause health issues, along with abdominal pain, muscle spasms, and in high doses, seizures.
Medicinal use for the plant is under testing in many regions for potential uses as an alternative blood pressure medication in extremely low doses.
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