Homebrew Dryad Species Details

Dryads, often referred to as tree nymphs, are a Fey race that served as guardians of the forest in which they dwell. Each Dryad is bound to the tree from which they were born, and are sworn to a life protecting this tree. Even when they are away from their forest of origin, they are spiritually connected to it and will always know their way back home.

Dryad Appearance

Dryads very often have skin that matches the bark of the tree that they are born from. Most range from light brown to dark brown in color, and have a bark-like texture. Eye colors are typically brown, but some have green or hazel eyes. Their hair is typically brown or black, though there are some who have green or white hair, the latter of which being typically reserved for the ancients. Adult Dryads also have wooden antlers, the wood of which is made of the wood of their tree of origin. The antlers are extremely strong, and are able to grow back if they break. Those under 100 years do not have antlers.

A Dryad's size corresponds with their age. Since Dryads are not considered adults until they reach 100 years old, up until then they are considered "small." They grow taller with age, the tallest of which having reached 7 feet in height.

Nature's Armor

Due to their bark-like skin, Dryad's have a natural armor that provide extra protection. They have a resistance to bludgeoning damage, and have a natural AC of 16 when not wearing any other armor. However, due to their racial makeup, they are more vulnerable to fire damage.

Of The Trees

Dryads know the Barkskin spell. Use of this spell does not expend a spellslot, however it may only be used once per long rest.

Antler Attack

Adult Dryads have large wooden antlers made of the tree that bore them. You may use your action to attack with your antlers for 1d6 + STR piercing damage.

Hidden in Plain Sight 

When surrounded by trees, you may attempt to camouflage into nature, and gain advantage on Stealth checks.

 

Dryad Traits

The racial traits for Dryads are as followed.

Hidden in Plain Sight

You gain advantage on Stealth checks when trying to hide amongst trees or in the forest.

Ability Score Increases

Your Charisma score increases by 2 and your Dexterity skill increases by 1.

Languages

You speak Common and Sylvan.

Creature Type

You are a Fey.

Life Span

Dryads are as old as the trees, with some living up to 1000 years old.

Size

Dryads are tree nymphs, with their size being most reflective of their age. Dryads reach adulthood at around 100 years old, and are considered small until then. Adults are considered medium.

Speed

Dryads have a walking speed of 30. In addition, Dryads also have a climbing speed of 30.

Nature's Armor

Dryads are born of the trees, and thus have bark-like skin that provides natural armor, giving you a base AC of 16.

Of The Trees

You know the Barkskin spell. Use of this spell does not expend a spellslot, however it may only be used once per long rest.

Antler Attack

You can use your action to attack with your antlers. The damage dealt by this attack is 1d6+STR piercing damage.