Spire-Root

Spire Root is the rooted part of the Spire Barb plant, which is largely inedible except for its roots. The plant was a gift from the Sacred Wanderers to the PVT during their exile from the Iron Coalition. The flowering half of the plant contains large, hollow thorns that are coated in a thick viscous oil substance. If one is pierced by a thorn or comes into contact with its secretions, intense rash and itching quickly develop followed by fainting/vomiting. Small pustules on the stem of the plant can be broken open releasing a flurry of spores into the air, starting the reproductive cycle. 
While its properties make it difficult to safely farm, the reward is well worth it. The root of the plant is extremely nutritious, with an extremely long shelf life. If properly prepared and cured, Spire Root can last for 12 years or more. It is a popular ration for PVT service members, who often add it to soups and stews to boost its caloric and nutritive value.
More controversially, the PVT has recently taken to weaponizing genetically modified spores of the plant by loading it into long-range airburst artillery. The shells are shot from ship-borne batteries into IC territory, detonating a few thousand feet above ground and raining down trillions of toxic spores. If not immediately addressed the spores will quickly germinate and grow into vast fields of dense, vile brambles. Currently the IC is poorly equipped to deal with this type of threat-Roads can be blocked, crops fouled, and livestock killed. Many citizens also fall ill to its effects, having never encountered it before.