Selgroos

Selgroos is a fictional plant species described in encyclopedic entries about a constructed fantasy biogeography. It is presented as a monotypic species, Selgroos viridis, within the imagined family Selgroaceae. The name is attributed to the fictional botanist Dr. Selgroos, said to have first documented the plant in the temperate region known as Northrealm.

Description

Selgroos viridis is a compact evergreen shrub reaching about 0.4 to 1.0 meters in height. It has elliptic leaves 2 to 4 cm long with a waxy, glossy surface. The flowers are small, five-petaled, and range in color from pale blue to lavender, arranged in loose terminal clusters. The fruit appears as a dry capsule that releases seeds when mature.

Distribution and habitat

In the fictional setting, Selgroos viridis is native to temperate woodland margins and rocky slopes of Northrealm. It favors well-drained soils and partial shade, often thriving in sheltered, hillside habitats.

Ecology and uses

The species is described as being pollinated by bees and small butterflies, with seed dispersal aided by wind and occasional avian vectors. In in-world ethnobotany, its leaves are used to craft ceremonial garlands and to extract a blue dye; the plant is also grown ornamentally for its year-round foliage and compact form.

Taxonomy and etymology

Genus Selgroos, with the single species Selgroos viridis, is presented as monotypic in this setting. The epithet viridis refers to the green foliage, while the genus name honors the fictional botanist Dr. Selgroos.