Ikerua (ICK-err-ROO-uh)
Ikeruas are short, biennial, leafy bushes native to mountainous regions, but have become more common in domestic form on farms than their wild counterparts. They are notable for being the site of choice for ikerua moths to lay their eggs, whose cocoons and larvae are harvested in order to make cloudweave.
Thick stalks create tiers of copious rough-surfaced, oval-shaped leaves with red, green and white variegation patterns. Tiny pink bell flowers with very long stamens typically emerge in pairs close to leaf nodes and hang from the underside of stems.
Basic Information
Genetics and Reproduction
Pollination usually occurs by ikerua moth when they arrive to lay eggs.
Ecology and Habitats
Initially native to mountainous regions and thriving at cooler temperatures, domesticated cultivars can survive in more temperate regions but need a steady water supply; mountain varietals are often rooted where water catches in stones, or near springs or snowmelt paths.
Additional Information
Domestication
Propagation of seedlings and cuttings was first mastered by fauns, who began steps toward domestication of the species and temperate-tolerant cultivars. Once this process had solidified, the first attempts at active silk-farming began. Many crops failed due to higher temperatures that allowed rot rust to bloom when there were not enough moth larvae to completely strip the plant. The farms, however, are beginning to hit their stride and overcome these obstacles.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Food crop for ikerua moths for the subsequent harvesting of larvae and cocoons used in sericulture.
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