Unique Trees

[NIAH]

{ Trees of the New World }​

Exploration of the new continent has provided a variety of new trees species previously unknown to Alterans. Many forests are dominated by the colorful giants, which has led to much discussion among explorers as to what these trees actually are. Many researchers have set out to study their properties, and in short, this is what they found.

The Cerulean Crown
{A massive tree that produces beautiful blue and purple flowers}​

The Cerulean Crown grows predominantly in the southeastern parts of the continent where it is warmer and closer to the ocean. In some areas, the flowering trees grow as far as the eye can see. A few of the more ancient trees have adapted to the fertile soil of the region to grow well over 100ft, although on average they only reach 60-70ft.

The bark is a pale gray and the wood is rather soft and smooth. Carpenters and woodworkers have made use of it as a good carving wood for utensils, statues, and bowls. The leaves are a deep green and akin to ferns in appearance. When the tree is in bloom, the flowers are what give it the distinctive blue look. The Crown has vibrant flowers that completely cover the tree, and often litter the ground below. It has been noted that there are a variety of Cerulean Crown's on the new continent, some with varying hues of blues and deep purples.

The Flowering Dogwood Tree
{ A small flowering tree that produces flowers and small berries. }​

The Dogwood is a small deciduous tree that can be found in several parts of Altera. Some varieties are more akin to shrubs than proper trees, although the Dogwood Forest near the center of the new land has produced specimens of appreciable size As a fast growing species, the trees in the central forest are able to thrive and reach 10-40ft.

What makes the Dogwood so striking is the small flowers and red berries that cover the tree in the warmer months. The flowers vary from deep pink to white, and every hue between. The berries, when ripe, are edible and similar to a cranberry. The tree is useful for for making red dyes, and the dense bark is perfect for crafting tools and handles.

The Crimson King Maple
{ A sturdy tree that boasts colorful leaves, even through the seasons of Birth and Harvest. }​

The Crimson King is a species of maple unique to the areas just south of the new land’s cold tundras. While maples are able to grow in a wide variety of climates, The Crimson King is particularly well adapted to the cooler climates near the large lake. The tree can grow anywhere between 60-100ft tall and gets its distinct name from the colorful leaves it boasts year round. In warmer months the leaves are a rich, reddish maroon and naturally fade to an orange yellow in the Season of Decay.

Like many maples, the Crimson King can produce syrup though it is not as sweet as others in the maple family. Instead, the tree is more useful for crafters because its wood is ideal for furniture and instruments.