Description

The Houndstooth Cactus, a yellowish flora, is renowned for its deadly sharp spikes tipped with red. This carnivorous cactus flourishes in deserts and other arid environments where water is scarce. It employs a unique method of capturing prey, propelling its spikes to kill, and then leisurely consuming the decaying remains.

Properties

When a creature ventures within 5 ft. of the cactus, it launches its spikes in defense. The cactus makes a ranged attack roll with a +5 bonus, dealing 3d4+3 piercing damage on a successful hit. If the creature remains within range of the cactus, it will persist in launching spikes on subsequent turns.

Cultivation

A Houndstooth Cactus can be propagated by cutting and immersing it in water to sprout new roots. However, approaching the plant without triggering its defense mechanism can be challenging. It requires watering every 1 to 2 months and does not demand rich soil. The cactus’s spikes can be harvested by approaching it without touching the ground near it.

Applications

The spikes of the Houndstooth Cactus have various uses. They can be utilized as blow darts or processed into a paste that, when applied to a weapon, adds +1 piercing damage to each successful hit.