Adelin Flower

The adelin is a small and lovely flower that is common throughout Akaryth. It is hardy and grows along the foothills of the Ironfist mountains and throughout the wider plains of the country, especially in well-watered areas. It is especially common in Avinyar and Maleceny. The flower itself is a national and cultural symbol of the Akarthan people and is a common decorative motif on clothing, architecture, etc. It is also a symbol of the growing year and of summer.
The adelin grows in bunches of three flowers emerging from a single stem. Each flower possessed six white petals edged in blue, with a darker stripe down the middle widening out at the bottom of the flower. The stamen is yellow, deepening to rich gold as the flower matures. The flower is perennial, but grows new flowers each spring--three buds sprout from the stem remaining from the previous year, and by late spring open into blossoms. It remains open throughout the day, closing at night. The flowers begin to die off in early autumn, and are gone by the middle of the season. The flower has a sweet and soft scent, powdery, with a creamy undertone. It is used frequently in the manufacture of perfumes and as a scent in cosmetics. The leaves have a minty flavor if gathered before autumn and are used in much Akarthan cooking.
The plant is also useful medicinally. Its roots, when roasted, ground, and steeped in hot water produce a tonic that is vitamin-rich and bitter, but is an effective treatment for coughs, sore throats, and fevers. When boiled and the vapor inhaled, this infusion treats respiratory complaints.
Category:Akaryth
Category:Herbalism
Category:Plants