In this world, there are many tools one may use to direct magic. One of the most well known of these is the wand. Of course it is a common saying that "The wand chooses the wizard", with all wands having a degree of awareness with which they select...
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Taxodium distichum, known as bald cypress, is a deciduous conifer from the Cupressaceae family. It grows naturally in the southeastern United States. This hardy tree can handle many soil types, from wet to dry or swampy. Its lacy needles turn a russet-red color in the fall. Some cultivated varieties exist, and the tree is often planted in groups in public areas. It is also called swamp cypress, white cypress, tidewater red cypress, gulf cypress, and red cypress, and it is the state tree of Louisiana.
Bald Cypress is a very popular wand wood in the Southern wizarding communities, favoring swamp and bayou cultivations. Bald cypress is capable of a wide range of magic but has a particular proclivity to enchantment and legilimency. It does not favor dark or light magic, though once it has chosen an allegiance, it is very resistant to a new master of the opposite type, rendering it almost useless to one's enemies. A defining characteristic of the bald cypress is its silence when casting, which has led to its use as a hunting wand. Bald cypress is heavily tied to the swamps of the South and the cycles of life and death. Enchantments worked with a bald cypress wand are long-lasting, and the wand itself is somewhat resistant to wear and tear. Bald Cypress prefers owners who are mysterious, stately, or sad. Historically, this wood has seen wide use in the New Orleans style but has spread throughout to almost every style in the South.
