Polevoi

Polevoi is a Slavic field spirit who protects crops and wildflowers. He appears as an old man with grass for hair and flowers growing from his beard. Though generally benevolent, he can be mischievous and lead people astray in his fields if not properly respected.

According to Slavic folklore, Polevoi lives in the last sheaf of grain left standing after harvest. Farmers would weave this sheaf into a doll-like figure and keep it until next planting season. Offerings of bread and salt were left for him to ensure good harvests.

Polevoi represents the Slavic animistic belief that all natural places have spirits. His worship shows the agricultural roots of Slavic culture. Elements of his cult survived in harvest festivals and folk traditions about respecting the land. The figure of Polevoi influenced later depictions of nature spirits in Slavic literature.