Razorleaf

This vaguely humanoid-shaped plant boasts shimmering black and plum-colored leaves sprouting from from its head, back, and arms. The leaves are wickedly sharp and can be shaken loose to form deadly slashing clouds.

Medium plant, neutral evil

Armor Class 14 (natural armor)
Hit Points 112 (15d8 + 45)
Speed 30 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA
14 (+2) 12 (+1) 16 (+3) 7 (-2) 12 (+1) 10 (+0)

Skills Perception +4
Damage Vulnerabilities fire
Damage Resistances cold, necrotic
Condition Immunities blinded, deafened, exhaustion
Senses blindsight 60 ft. (blind beyond this radius), passive Perception 14
Languages
Challenge 5 (1,800 XP)

Special Traits

  • Dark Ground. As an action, the razorleaf can dig its roots into the ground, securing itself in place and causing the area in a 20-foot radius around it to be shrouded in shadow. While rooted in this way, the razorleaf’s speed becomes 0, it can’t be knocked prone, and its attacks deal an extra 3 (1d6) necrotic damage. This area is difficult terrain and nonmagical sources of light are only half as effective while within it. Small and smaller beasts with Intelligence 3 or lower in the area lose their natural coloration and turn pale grey. These creatures are charmed by the razorleaf while within the area. Plants and trees inside the area turn an ashen color. The razorleaf can recall its roots and end this effect as a bonus action.
  • Do Not Touch. A creature that touches the razorleaf or hits it with a melee attack while within 5 feet of it takes 3 (1d6) slashing damage.
  • Light Sensitivity. While in bright light, the razorleaf has disadvantage on attack rolls, as well as on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight.

Actions

  • Multiattack. The razorleaf makes two lacerating leaves attacks.
  • Lacerating Leaves. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 10 ft., one target. Hit: 12 (3d6 + 2) slashing damage.
  • Shower of Razors (Recharge 5-6). The razorleaf shakes loose a deadly shower of slicing leaves. Each creature within 10 feet of the razorleaf must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw, taking 21 (6d6) slashing damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.

About

Roots in Shadow. Razorleaves grow where the veil between the Shadow Plane and the Material Plane has thinned and darkness bleeds through into the soil. Their plant-like bodies are tinged with shadow magic but are as tangible as any other shrub or tree. Their roots are made of pure shadow and have a corrupting effect on other plants and animals around them.

Letting the Light Out. Mature razorleaves have a darkening effect on the area in which they live. Nonmagical sources of light are only half as effective in these plants’ groves.

There is a 50% chance that a portal to the Shadow Plane will appear wherever three or more razorleaves dwell. Sustained by the presence of the plants, the portal serves as a doorway between worlds.

Section 15: Copyright Notice

Creature Codex. © 2018 Open Design LLC; Authors Wolfgang Baur, Dan Dillon, Richard Green, James Haeck, Chris Harris, Jeremy Hochhalter, James Introcaso, Chris Lockey, Shawn Merwin, and Jon Sawatsky.