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Bloodvine

Shrub type: Deciduous (Stores water in its stem)

This modest-sized shrub grows up to 3 feet (91.4 cm) tall and lives for decades, with the oldest known specimen being around 144 years old. It is very susceptible to disease and insect infestation.

It has numerous branched, curved stems covered in thick, ridged, white with black speckled bark, and the wood inside is silver.

The branches are very short and thick that and are covered with thick bunches of large, wide, leaves with smooth edges. The leaves themselves are either blood red, or subtle red with bright green zig-zags, tough and soft.

In late summer it produces a handful of medium-sized, blood red blossoms with asymmetrical petals. They are sturdy and have a strong scent that smells like old shoes.

In late winter small heart-shaped fruits ripen. The crispy black skin is thick and edible when roasted; it is savoury, and the very soft subtle red flesh is salty and juicy. The blood red seeds are tiny and are scattered throughout the fruit.

It out-competes most other plants for nutrients and light.
It is suitable for creating strong, durable textiles