Cieke

Cieke is a perennial herb described in the fictional Verdari bioregions. The plant is known for its compact rosette of leaves and slender flowering stems. The name derives from the Verdari word for sunleaf and is used in regional folklore and horticultural texts to designate the species and its cultivated varieties.

Cieke grows to about 40 to 70 centimeters in height. Leaves are lanceolate, with a slightly wavy margin and a fragrant, citrus-like aroma when crushed. The inflorescence consists of small tubular flowers that range in color from golden yellow to pale orange, blooming from late spring to early summer. The plant favors well-drained soil in sunny to partially shaded slopes.

In cultivation, Cieke prefers temperate climates and thrives in rocky or sandy soils. It is propagated by seed or by offset cuttings and requires regular moisture without waterlogging. It is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor.

Cieke is valued for several practical uses. The leaves and flowering tops are used to flavor dishes in regional cuisine, and an essential oil extracted from the flowers is employed in perfumery and aromatherapy within the Verdari narratives. Dyes obtained from petals have been used in traditional textiles.

Cieke also appears in contemporary craft and horticultural exhibitions as a representative of Verdari biodiversity. In trade, it is listed as a niche ornamental and medicinal plant, with sustainable harvesting practiced to protect wild populations and maintain habitat diversity.