Yew Beard
Yew Beard is a rare lichen that grows only on ancient yew trees. It has a distinct blue-ish color and is soft to the touch with a very pleasant floral scent when crushed. This lichen grows very slowly, and once harvested can take years to regrow. It is a vital and necessary component to most magical and medicinal healing potions, and as such it demands a high price in any market. The lichen has the proven ability to ease or relieve many symptoms of illness or injury, and has long been considered a cure-all for many maladies.
Known to Gnomes as Taxus Barbatus, this simply organism is a means to quick wealth for any that find it. The danger is in the fact that it does not replenish quickly, and trees where it has been harvested have gone generations without it growing back. Only by careful management and tending have certain communities (mostly Halfling) managed to maintain a steady supply of the material in a few scattered locations.
Properties
Physical & Chemical Properties
A powerful magical and medicinal healing agent, and a vital component to many potions, elixirs and tinctures.
Distribution
Trade & Market
A high demand commodity in any market, culture or region.
Storage
Once dried, it is extremely shelf stable.
Type
Organic
Value
Very valuable, typically at least equal to its weight in gold.
Rarity
Found only on ancient yew trees, and then only rarely.
Odor
Sweet, floral scent when crushed
Taste
Slightly woody, but not unpleasant
Color
varying shades of blue, depending on the region
Related Locations
