Post by Onyxaeon on Dec 1, 2008 0:22:46 GMT -5
Needlethorn grows as several cactus-like 'stalks' from a single base of broadleaf. (DragonLovers says that it shows 3 stalks, 3 leaves). It is a succulent bush with hollow, toxic brown spines. The skin of the plant has fine hairs that can cause irritation, possibly inflammation of skin it comes in contact with. Needlethorn is omnivorous and shoots its thorns at anything that disturbs it during its growing season. It falls into a dormant stage when the flowers of the ging tree open. These plants are always found together. The spines are poisonous through spring and summer. The vine grows during the winter and has to shed its old corona or leave too many unprotected gaps. I understand the flesh is tasty. During the spring and summer the bush has an odor to attract snakes and insects. The hollow spines suck essential juices from the creature the plant impales, and also rainwater. Needlethorns are also used for transfusions. Its needles are also used as syringe for injections and to draw blood.
