Dandelion

Dandelions are a specialized resource in Timberborn, harvested from Dandelion Bushes by beavers working at Gatherer Flags. Unlike food crops, Dandelions have a single primary purpose: serving as an ingredient for Antidote production at the Herbalist. Dandelion Bushes can be planted by Foresters and regrow after harvesting, providing a renewable supply of this medicinal plant. Their sole function in the production chain makes them a niche but critically important resource.

Dandelions become essential whenever Badwater contamination threatens your colony. During Badtides, contaminated water can sicken beavers, and the only cure is Antidote produced at the Herbalist. Since Antidote production requires a steady supply of Dandelions, having established Dandelion groves before contamination events occur is vital for colony survival. Without pre-positioned Dandelion Bushes and a functioning Herbalist, a contamination event can devastate your workforce.

Plant Dandelion Bushes near your Gatherer Flags in areas that are safe from Badwater contamination. There is no point in growing your medicine in an area that will itself become contaminated during Badtides. Maintain a buffer stock of harvested Dandelions at all times, even when contamination is not an immediate threat, since Badtides can arrive with little warning. The investment in Dandelion infrastructure is small compared to the catastrophic consequences of having no Antidote available when your beavers fall ill.