Advanced Herbology

 

 

Bouncing Bulb

Sometimes referred to as Resilio Bulbus, these plants "bounce" around often, when not restrained. Purple in colour, bouncing bulbs resemble a bulb shaped plant, with several green leaves sprouting from the top. In order to properly care for this plant, one needs to have an amount of dirt equal to the size of a bathtub, at a neutral pH level (around 7.0). Centaur Tears are the best watering tool, and bulbs should grow in a bright area. Young bulbs are far easier to deal with than their adult counterparts, which are somewhat aggressive, and jump towards those they view as threats. Smaller, younger bulbs, can generally be subdued with a simple Knockback Jinx (Flipendo), while larger bulbs should be restrained with fire. A common, simple solution is the Fire-Making Charm (Incendio). The fire produced causes withering of the bulbs, and damages the plant, so other solutions may be preferred, depending on the situation.

 

Gurdyroot

The foul scent and taste of gurdyroots are commonly used to "ward off evil". Similar in appearance to green onions, these foul smelling roots are used in a number of potions, which are also used to  ward off evil spirits and creatures. Once such example is the Gulping Plimpie, said to be unable to withstand the scent of gurdyroots. To quote Professor Lily Tudor, Herbologist Professor at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, "Herbologists are not yet in agreement on the actual existence of that particular breed of Plimpie."

 

Gurdyroots require a large amount of nutrients from soil, but otherwise can grow in a wide array of environments. Moderate levels of sunlight and water, likewise will keep a gurdyroot growing healthily for several months, so long as the soil is of high quality, although their size is linked to the amount of sunlight they receive. When growing, the pot must be almost exactly seven and a half times the size of the bulb, to accomodate for growth and allow the plant to feel "comfortable".  Nonperiurabis is a recommended protective spell, which prevents small bugs from feeding off and damaging the root, which attracts many small magical creatures.

 

Aconite (Aconitum Flower)

Aconite, otherwise known as Monkshood or Wolfsbane, is a type of flowering plant, which is also an extremely potent sedative and poison. It can be found in forests, and mountainous regions of the Northern Hemisphere, in moderate temperatures. Due to its high toxicity, extreme care must be taken when dealing with this plant. Consumption of only small amounts of the plant can easily prove fatal. Furthermore, the poison can easily be absorbed through skin, and chance of infection increases further if one has open wounds on their hands or arms. For this reason, protective spells and dragon hide gloves should be used at all times when caring for this type of plant.

 

Despite its highly poisonous content, minimal amounts of the plant can be used to significantly slow heart rate, which is useful in critical medical emergencies, and is known to be an apt treatment for prickly pain in the skin. There are a multitude of hazards associated with the plant, and thus precautions must be taken when caring for Aconite. If growing the root or flowers outside, one should be certain to prevent local wildlife from coming near the plant, as the poison may interfere with other animals and plants in the area. Consumption of the plant, or large amounts of contact with the plant will almost certainly lead to death. Symptoms take about an hour to set in when dealing with smaller amounts of infection, and death may occur from two-six hours after exposure to the plant. For this reason, an infected person should seek treatment immediately. Applying Antropine, a fully plant based potion is known to assist in treatment, but only certified healers at St Mungo’s will be able to fully co-ordinate treatment and prevent major symptoms or death. Symptoms include diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting about an hour after exposure. After the poison continues to move through the bloodstream, sweating, dizziness, confusion, headaches, and troubles with breathing may occur.

Nutritious soil is best for growing Aconite, dark, fluffy soil being ideal. The plant thrives in shady areas, so if outdoors, growing the plant underneath a large tree is best.