A growth of crystalline, whitish-yellow and translucent to transparent, only vaguely tree-like, and possibly photosynthetic, sessile organisms. The visible growth is only a tiny part of the whole organism, most of which is located underground. It originated around the time of the [[Catastrophe]]. The crystal forest thrives in dry environments, with rapid growth noted in the lowlands and slower growth in moister areas. It is not edible, even to gem-eating varieties of [[dragon]], though broken pieces of it resemble shards of crystal. 

The Crystal Forest can overtake normal plants, and renders an area unsuitable for [[agriculture]]. It is difficult and dangerous to clear, requiring hard work with picks and hammers or explosives. Its growth is usually indolent, but at other times can be extremely rapid, horizontal expansion of the growth up to several meters per day has been occasionally reported. 

The Crystal Forest environment is generally hazardous to ponies and other typical forms of life and is avoided by them. Ponies who persist in exploring the Crystal Forest for more than a few hours often become sick with the so-called crystal disease, symptoms of which include malaise and disorientation. The symptoms are reversible in a few days if the victim is removed from the forest. The mechanism of the illness is unknown to pony medicine. 

At night, the crystal forest produces dim and flickering light, sometimes in complex patterns; their significance is unknown. The crystal forest also sometimes seems to draw heat from the air around it and nearby objects.

The continued growth of the crystal forest is a major long-term concern for the inhabitants of the [[Dusts]], and, indeed, any area in which it is found. Pieces of the “trees” in the crystal forest can sometimes be spread to previously uninfected areas if they are environmentally suitable, but these rarely exhibit extensive growth or light production and reportedly do not cause the crystal disease. Obviously, though, such activity is frowned upon and reliable data is wanting.

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CategoryFlora