Inkwood Tree

Inkwoods are small, deciduous trees native to the swamps near Rockport prized for their rich, darkly colored wood. They reach 6 to 10 feet tall with gnarled trunks between 20 and 30 inches in diameter. The trunks are covered in a rough, dark gray bark that sometimes develops blue or purple hues as the tree ages. The opposite pinnately compound leaves are long and pendulous, giving the tree a "weeping" appearance. Flowers are produced in the Spring, shortly before new leaves develop. The small, white flowers grow in hanging clusters (racemes) and attract glass butterflies, which feed on the nectar and pollinate the flowers.

Uses
The wood from inkwood trees is a dense hardwood whose color can range from dark gray or brown to almost black with older specimens sometimes having subtle blue or purple tones to it. Inkwood is dense enough to sink in water. It is highly sought after for small luxury items such as religious symbols, game pieces, personal items such as combs and hand mirrors as well as musical instruments. Although very expensive, demand for larger pieces has risen recently with finely carved chests and cabinets becoming popular among the elite of Brightwater.