Alias: None
Origin: Geba (central plains)
The Geban Grain is a fast-growing, cereal-like plant native exclusively to the central plains of the Geban continent, renowned for its abundant, nutrient-rich seeds that have ensured no hunger has ever plagued Geba’s population. Its tall, resilient stalks produce a versatile grain used in a wide array of culinary, industrial, and cultural applications, forming the backbone of Geban agriculture. Historically, it supported the Geban Empire’s expansion during the Era of Early Dominion (~6,000–3,500 years before modern Geba) by providing a reliable food source, and its rapid growth made it a symbol of prosperity. Its presence indicates fertile, well-drained soils, making it a key marker for agricultural surveys.
Geban Grains thrive in the central plains of Geba, favoring well-drained, nutrient-rich soils in open, grassy expanses. They grow in dense fields, stabilizing soil against wind erosion, but are absent in arid deserts, dense forests, or waterlogged wetlands due to their need for moderate moisture and open sunlight.
Found at low to moderate elevations, typically from 0.5–1.5 km, Geban Grains dominate Geba’s central plain ecosystems. They are rarely seen above 2 km or in coastal lowlands, as higher or wetter elevations lack the balanced conditions required for their rapid growth.
Geba’s central plains maintain a warm temperate climate, averaging 15–30°C, with moderate humidity fostering lush fields. Geban Grains thrive in stable, moderately moist conditions, tolerating brief dry spells but struggling in extreme aridity or waterlogged environments.
Geban Grains are adapted to seasonal rains and moderate winds that nourish Geba’s central plains. They withstand occasional dust storms but are vulnerable to rare stellar disruptions (Izhara’s plasma storms), which can scorch stalks. Their flexible stalks sway in strong winds, protecting seed heads.
Geban Grains are annual, living 3–6 months, with extremely rapid growth and seed production within weeks. They reach maturity in 1–2 months, producing viable seeds multiple times per season during rainy periods, ensuring abundant harvests.
Mature Geban Grains reach 1.5–2.5 meters in height, with seed-heavy heads spreading up to 0.4 meters wide. Younger plants (under 1 month) are typically 0.5–1 meter tall, with thinner stalks.
The Geban Grain’s rapid growth and versatility ensured food security during the Era of Early Dominion (~6,000–3,500 years before modern Geba), fueling the Geban Empire’s growth and trade. Its resilience supported recovery in the Warlord Eras (~500–17 years before modern Geba), maintaining Geba’s agricultural dominance. Expedition teams should monitor for dust storms, which may damage young crops. Its exclusive range to Geba’s central plains limits its cultivation to fertile, well-drained biomes, cementing its role as a cornerstone of Geban prosperity.