Godsbane
Basic Information
Anatomy
Godsbane is a small tuber plant that grows dandelion like leaves and long stems tipped with 5 to 7 small yellow flowers in a cluster formation. Most of the plant is underground, in the form of a large white bulb much like a radish with fine, stringy roots growing from it.
Biological Traits
This plant is extremely hardy, surviving in many different environments aside from hot sandy deserts. It has been known to survive even the most brutal of herbicides and pests, making it an ideal survivor akin to the dandelion. It absorbs toxins in the soil and water with incredible efficiency, and due to this, the plant is also known to become incredibly toxic after it has absorbed polluted soil, giving its name as the first discovered population was described as 'so poisonous, it could kill a god'.
Areas with iron rich soil are prone to producing a red variant of godsbane- the above ground section of this plant looks identical to the main species, but its bulbs and roots are stained a bright red. Sulfur rich soil, such as around volcanoes, produce a yellow variant.
Genetics and Reproduction
This plant reproduces sexually by pollination and seeds, but like most tubers, can reproduce asexually via cloning. It is not a hard plant to cultivate and will grow in most soils, including those contaminated by pesticides, oil spills, and pollution.
Ecology and Habitats
Godsbane is found across Laramidia, with its range reaching northern Mexico all the way to the Land of Gods. It can grow in almost any soil as long as it gets enough water during its early development, and is highly drought resistant. The plant favors regions that allow it to go into dormancy once freezing temperatures arrive.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
The godsbane plant is an ideal subject for gauging soil pollution, as its bulbs and roots will store contaminants for years while allowing the plant to survive. They are often deliberately planted in polluted areas to track the region's recovery. The plant is also edible, often compared to a mix between a potato and raddish in taste for the bulbs, and its leaves are crisp and crunchy. Bulbs are not commonly eaten due to their ease of absorbing toxins and the risk associated with it, but leaves and flowers can be used in salads safely with no risk to the consumer.
As godsbane that grows in iron rich soil becomes a deep red color, the roots are often dried, crushed, and used to make reddish pigments among the Pack of Ferventi. Yellow variants, from specimens grown in sulfur rich soil, are sometimes used to make stink bombs.
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Average Height
5 inches (above ground) 12 inches (above ground when flowering)
Geographic Distribution
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