Likekinda

Likekinda is a fictional genus of flowering plants created for speculative botany and world-building exercises. It is not a recognized taxon in real-world floras.

Etymology: The name combines an invented root lik-, intended to evoke imitation, with the suffix -kinda, drawn from a fictional language used in the setting.

Description: Species of Likekinda are small to medium shrubs or trees, typically 1–4 meters tall. They have opposite, simple leaves that are glossy and elliptic. The inflorescences bear five-petaled flowers, usually white or pale pink with darker throats. Fruits are dry capsules containing several winged seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Likekinda is described as endemic to the Therin Archipelago in the eastern Estara region, where it favors coastal scrub and montane forest edges. Some populations occur on windward slopes with regular sea spray.

Ecology and uses: Pollination is attributed to hummingbirds and large carpenter bees. Seed dispersal is often by wind from winged seeds. In fiction, some species produce edible fruits used locally in traditional dishes; other species are valued for ornamental qualities.

Taxonomy and species: Likekinda is placed in the family Likekindaceae, order Apiales in the fictional taxonomy of the setting. Notable species include Likekinda alba, L. rubra, and L. viridis.

Conservation: Given its restricted range, the genus is described as vulnerable in-universe, with threats from habitat modification and invasive species. Real-world conservation status is not applicable.

See also: List of fictional plant genera; speculative botany; world-building compendia. References: In-universe field guides and novels.