Crystamble

The crystamble split from its ancestor the crystal brambley. It has spread across the more arid regions of Darwin. Like its ancestor it grows fractal branches which give it shrub shape. Each crystal leaf works as both a site of photosynthesis and a thorn. It reproduces via asexual budding from its fungus-like roots. Its roots are more subterranean than its ancestors to help it conserve water in more arid environments. The prickly nature of the crystamble makes it a good shelter for small fauna.