Montane Asterplent
The descendant of chance occurrences of hybridization between chunky asterplents and grassterplents, the montane asterplent has spread into the northern lands of Ovi. Due to a combination of heterosis and a near total lack of competition for the niche of large flora outside of the ovipine dwarf gazebo, this species has grown massive compared to either of its ancestors. It has grown so large, in fact, that adults are now effectively immobile once they have found a place to settle in and "take root". Because of this, juveniles must seek out rich patches of soil to burrow in soon after they have landed. Otherwise they risk stunted growth and other deformities related to poor nutrition.
The skin of the montane asterplent is hard and knobby, not unlike that of a gourd. Covering this skin is a thin layer of a waxy substance that aids them in resisting desiccation, as well as deterring the voracious advances of plentmowers to a limited degree. The leaves are reduced, but now encircle the protruding outer rim of the reproductive opening. With the aid of tiny thorn-like "fingers" protect it from potential predators by contracting should they detect something trying to enter. Finally, the legs of this species are tipped in a single claw each, and are utilized by the juveniles to dig when they first take root. From there, a thick, taproot-like structure develops and extends deeper and deeper into the dirt in order to extract nutrients and absorb water. In times of severe drought, the montane asterplent can rely on nutrients stored within this structure in order to survive.
Originating in the vast open expanses of the Ovi Plains, over several centuries they went on to spread into the deep montane wilderness of the nearby steppes.