Blood Tree

Native to the north eastern region of Yzel, the Blood Tree, also known as Tough Fruit, Spine, or Sweet Blood, got its name from the color of its sap, which is a deep crimson color. In ancient times, the sap was formed into incense cones and burned at Tekel alters as an offering to the war goddess, Raesay. However, the sweet smell led to its use as an incense and perfume, Pink Eclipse, in both Yzel and Eoion.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Blood Trees stand between three and twenty meters tall. Their leaves are thin and pine-like, with pods at the end during the fruiting season. These pods are inedible to humans, but are attractive to birds and other small animals, who can digest the thick seeds and break the tough skin of the fruit. The bark is a dark brown color. When peeled away, it is actually rather light, but the dark sap tints it to the usual pigment seen in mature trees. 
An adolescent tree is less than three meters tall and has only flowered, but not produced fruit. This is because the pods buds are not strong enough to form the fruits until the three reaches its third year. However, the flowers begin to form in the first. 
Adult pods contain spines and a sticky, viscous fluid to deter predators. However, many animals have adapted to work around the spikes or use the sap. For example, certain species of monkey rub the fluid on their fingers to help them stick to trees. At full maturity, the tree will bear fruit twice a year, until it reaches the age of between 20 and 25, at which point, the tree begins to die.

Civilization and Culture

History

During ancient times, cones made from bark and sap were burned during rituals to the goddess, Raesay. The blood colored sap was said to bring her attention to the worshipper and they could then communicate directly with her during their prayers. While this practice continues today, it is no longer the main use for the trees. 
Along with this, farmers often used the sticky fluid on the outside of the pods in order to trap insects. They would spread the fluid on the edges of their doors or in the corners of rooms to deal with insect infestations. As more reliable insect traps were invented, this use fell away. 

Modern Use

In 882, the sweet smell was found by an Eoin merchant who was visiting a Tekel shrine while in Leowit. She realized that the scent could be used in perfume and began purchasing large quantities of Blood Tree sap, which she brought back to Eoion. There she, contracted alchemists to produce a perfume for her clients. 
This became extremely popular in both countries and the original manufacturer still makes it nearly two hundred years later, although other companies have created their own versions as well.

Lifespan

20-25 years

Average Height

3-20m