Here is some of the development from the other threads.
There is not much of a stem structure, it is more like the lily of the valley, or the primrose.
Some people would cultivate it as a crop I am sure, but not commonly. It would probably grow in the wild or in small vegetable gardens, and be used only occasionally, in a dish with something else. Its use as a medicine would be more obscurely known.
There are many, many plants that are poisonous in some form, and it seems that people only hear about the notably strong poisons. Buttercups are poisonous for example. I have not heard of buttercup poisoning though, unless some one accidentally ate one.
I think so far the most remarkable thing about the rapaca is how completely, quickly, and satisfactorily it occurred to me, and on so slight provocation.
cephron wrote:
Hmm...role in ecology? What kind of climate does it thrive in? (If you want to be hardcore: how does it fit competitively into its niche? Are they eaten by any creatures?--if so, how does it escape being eradicated by them?)
Hot, more Mediterranean climate, more clayey soil I believe, near trees, especially copses, scattered woodland. Eaten by a few animals that not harmed by its poison, mainly a kind of aardvark. Its seeds are distributed by these creatures, it depends on them to survive.
cephron wrote:
And, role in economy? Farmed, sold, traded? Brought over from its indigenous habitat for use elsewhere?
Mainly occasional selling and trading by those who find them, not farmed much. Probably not known outside of its habitat.
cephron wrote:
Finally, is it likely that the plant might figure into your story? Athelas only made a brief appearance in LotR, but was memorable because its medicinal use actually impacted the story in a significant way. Developing the Rapaca's medicinal uses might give you a similar opportunity.
It is more likely now, thanks to the help developing here.