Submission (#5182) Approved

A land of floral fire, golden hues and vivid sunsets, Bellmoril is home to many a variety of magic. While much of this can be found put to work in town and with various forms of alchemy, there are plants known to be alchemists themselves in the many forested regions of Bellmoril.

In particular, one might find interesting the Alchemical Shrubs of Bellmoril, usually found sprinkled amongst trees and glades, and very rarely in the sparcer fields nearby. Much like their taller, more arboreal relatives, these shrubs are known to take on hues of yellow, orange, or red, though under much different conditions. At first glance these shrubs look quite drab, underwatered, or in some cases dead. And while they can be quite beautiful in the right circumstances, they were at one point classified as a weed. 

Known to smother smaller plants and crowd into the growing areas of trees, these shrubs are quick to grow and produce a large amount of sharp, prickly leaves, not unlike that of poison ivy. However, instead of producing an irritant or turning away wildlife and the occassional researcher, these weeds are known to minimally and subtley feed on the magical energies of anything that passes through it.

When it goes to take in energy this way, it magically and luminously mimics the colors more commonly seen and expected of it--the brilliant burning colors of Bellmoril, which makes it harder to identify and seperate from normal, non-predatory bushes of the area. While the plant poses no real danger, it does annoy many a gardener, and can sometimes affect the density of wooded areas.

Its leaves tend to shine brighter when in contact with some forms of magic in preference to others, and its color shifts with the composition of whatever is amongst its foliage. Often by crowding trees it can catch falling acorns, fruit, or even serve as temporary comfort for small animals. Many a traveler have also found it useful for hiding treasures for later, or creating landmarks by attaching the leaves of  the shrub to trees, rocks and other landmarks to rely on their glowing properties.

While there are likely better sources and alternatives, the plant is also useful for use in magical alchemies, many of the kind use to mark sigils and signwork in towns, or the occasional graffiti of a kittom with idle paws.

On the whole, the plant has seen a less harsh classification over time, its leaves finding many uses, including that of an extremely bitter, but shiny, pretty tea.  

Like any other weed, it should be properly managed in any garden, but in the wilds can help to not only preserve the orange beauty of the region, but help that floral fire extend into the twilight hours, at the small price of minimal residual magics.