Thorn Whip 5e: Everything That You Need To Know

Thorn Whip is a versatile and deadly spell in Dungeons and Dragons 5e that allows players to create a long, thorny whip that can be used to lash at enemies and possibly pull them toward you at up to ten feet.

With its unique properties, Thorn Whip is a favorite among druids and other nature-based spellcasters. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Thorn Whip in 5e D&D.

From its mechanics and range to its uses in combat and exploration, we will delve into the ins and outs of this spell.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Thorn Whip and how to use it effectively in your adventures. So grab your spellbook and get ready to learn about one of the most iconic spells in D&D!

What Is Thorn Whip?

Thorn Whip is a cantrip (a basic, low-level spell) in the 5th edition of Dungeons and Dragons. It is a nature-based spell that allows a caster to create a long, thorny whip made of vegetation.

The whip can be used to attack enemies and pull them, as well as move your teammates around the battlefield. Though the spell isn’t specifically said to be able to pull objects, your DM might make it this is a possibility in your particular campaign.

Thorn Whip is a ranged spell, meaning that it can be used to attack enemies from a distance. The range of the spell is 30 feet, which is relatively short compared to other ranged spells.

However, the spell’s ability to pull creatures toward the caster and move teammates (and potentially objects) makes it incredibly versatile and useful in a variety of situations. In terms of damage, Thorn Whip deals 1d6 piercing damage.

If the target of the spell is large or smaller, the caster can pull the target up to 10 feet closer to them. This can be useful for repositioning enemies or pulling them away from allies.

Additionally, if the caster is using Thorn Whip to grab onto an object- if the rules allow- they can use it to pull themselves up to 10 feet closer to the object. Thorn Whip is a useful spell for druids and other nature-based spellcasters.

Its versatility and unique properties make it a popular choice for players who want to add some flair to their spellcasting.

Thorn Whip Stats

• School: Conjuration
• Level: Cantrip
• Casting time: 1 action
• Range: 30 feet
• Components: V, S, M (a stem or piece of a thorny plant)
• Duration: Instantaneous
• Classes: Druid, Ranger, Nature Domain Cleric, Circle of Spores Druid

Who Can Use Thorn Whip?

Thorn Whip is a cantrip that can be used by any spellcaster with access to the Druid spell list. This includes Druids, Rangers, and multi-class characters with levels in these classes.

Some subclasses such as the Nature Domain Cleric and Circle of Spores Druid also have access to Thorn Whip.

It’s worth noting that the spell’s effectiveness may vary depending on the spellcaster’s ability scores, such as their spellcasting ability score (Wisdom for Druids and Rangers) and their Dexterity score.

A higher spellcasting ability score will increase the spell’s chance to hit and damage, while a higher Dexterity score will increase the caster’s chances of successfully grappling or pulling with Thorn Whip.

The Scale Of Thorn Whip

The scale of Thorn Whip is based on the spell’s range and damage. The spell’s range is 30 feet, which means that the caster can target any creature within that distance.

This range is relatively short compared to other ranged spells, but the ability to pull targets closer to the caster compensates for this limitation. In terms of damage, Thorn Whip deals 1d6 piercing damage to a target within range.

This damage is relatively low compared to other offensive spells, but it is a cantrip, meaning that the caster can use it repeatedly without expending a spell slot. This spell will also increase in damage when different levels are reached, with the damage at each milestone rising as follows:

• Fifth Level: 2d6
• Eleventh Level: 3d6
• Seventeenth Level: 4d6

Thorn Whip’s ability to pull targets toward the caster is a unique feature that sets it apart from other cantrips. This ability can be useful for repositioning enemies or pulling them away from allies.

Thorn Whip’s scale is relatively small compared to higher-level spells, but its versatility and unique properties make it a valuable addition to any spellcaster’s repertoire.

Its ability to deal damage, pull targets, and possibly manipulate objects, depending on the DM’s rules, makes it a useful tool in both combat and exploration scenarios.

The Best Classes To Use Thorn Whip

Thorn Whip is available to several different classes in D&D 5e, but it may be particularly effective when used by certain classes. Here are a few classes that may be well-suited for using Thorn Whip:

Druid

Thorn Whip is a cantrip that is available to Druids at 1st level. Druids can use this spell to deal damage from a distance, which can be useful if they want to stay out of melee range.

As well as that, Druids can use their Wild Shape ability to transform into creatures with natural weapons, making Thorn Whip an effective option for them in combat.

Warlock

Thorn Whip is also available to Warlocks at 1st level. Warlocks can use this spell to deal damage from a distance, and it can be particularly useful for Warlocks who have chosen the Pact of the Chain, as they can use their familiar to deliver the spell.

Sorcerer

Sorcerers can also use Thorn Whip as a cantrip, and it can be useful for dealing damage from a distance. Sorcerers who focus on spells that manipulate the battlefield or debuff enemies may find Thorn Whip to be a useful addition to their repertoire.

Ranger

While Thorn Whip is not available to Rangers as a core spell, some Rangers may be able to learn it through multi-classing or other means. Thorn Whip can be useful for Rangers who want to deal damage from a distance or who want to move enemies closer to them for melee attacks.

What Are The Rules When Using Thorn Whip?

Here are some of the rules to keep in mind when using Thorn Whip in D&D 5e:

Range

Thorn Whip has a range of 30 feet, meaning that the target must be within 30 feet of the caster in order to use the spell.

Attack Roll

When using Thorn Whip to attack an enemy, the caster must make a spell attack roll against the target’s AC. The attack roll is calculated as the caster’s spellcasting ability modifier (e.g. Wisdom for a druid) plus their proficiency bonus.

Damage

If the attack roll is successful, the target takes 1d6 piercing damage. If the target is pulled toward the caster, they take an additional 1d6 damage if they collide with an object or surface.

Target Size

Thorn Whip’s ability to pull targets toward the caster only works on targets that are Large or smaller. This means that it may not be effective against larger enemies or objects.

Material Component

Thorn Whip requires a stem or piece of a thorny plant- such as hawthorn, rose, or holly- as a material component, which must be held in the caster’s hand when the spell is cast.

Concentration

If the caster is hit while maintaining concentration on the Thorn Whip spell, they must make a Constitution saving throw to maintain concentration.

These are just some of the rules to keep in mind when using Thorn Whip in D&D 5e. As always, it’s important to check with your DM to ensure that you are following the rules of their specific game.

How Do You Use Thorn Whip?

To use Thorn Whip in D&D 5e, a character must be able to cast spells and have the Thorn Whip spell in their spellcasting repertoire. Here are the steps to use Thorn Whip in D&D 5e.

Make Sure That The Character Is Within Range Of The Target

Thorn Whip has a range of 30 feet, so the target must be within that range for the spell to be effective.

Make A Spell Attack Roll

If the target is an enemy, the caster must make a spell attack roll against the target’s Armor Class (AC). This is calculated as the caster’s spellcasting ability modifier plus their proficiency bonus. If the target is an object or the environment, the DM may set a DC based on the difficulty of the task.

Determine The Damage Dealt

If the attack roll is successful, the target takes 1d6 piercing damage. If the caster has chosen to pull the target towards them, they will take an additional 1d6 damage if they collide with an object or surface.

Determine The Effect Of The Pull

If the caster has chosen to pull the target towards them, the target must make a Strength saving throw. If the saving throw is unsuccessful, the target will be pulled up to 10 feet closer to the caster.

It’s important to keep in mind that Thorn Whip requires a material component – a stem or piece of a thorny plant – which must be held in the caster’s hand when the spell is cast, as previously mentioned.

The Possible Applications Of Thorn Whip 

Thorn Whip has a variety of applications in D&D 5e. Here are some of the most common ways that Thorn Whip can be used:

Ranged Combat

If the caster is a spellcaster or ranged attacker and needs to deal damage from a distance, Thorn Whip’s range can be useful for keeping a safe distance from enemies while still dealing damage.

Piercing Damage

If the enemy has a vulnerability to piercing damage, Thorn Whip’s piercing damage type can be especially effective.

Pulling Enemies

Thorn Whip allows the caster to pull enemies up to 10 feet closer to them. This can be useful for bringing enemies into melee range, pulling them away from allies, or pulling them into traps or hazards.

Possible Object Manipulation

If your campaign’s DM allows for it, Thorn Whip can be used to grab onto small objects and bring them closer to the caster, such as pulling a key out of reach or retrieving a dropped item.

Role-Playing

Thorn Whip can be used in creative ways to add flavor to a character’s actions or to solve puzzles or challenges. For example, a character could use Thorn Whip to grab onto a loose thread to unravel a tapestry and reveal a hidden doorway.

Overall, Thorn Whip is a versatile spell with a wide range of applications in D&D 5e. Its ability to pull enemies and possibly manipulate the environment can make it a valuable tool for both combat and exploration, while its cantrip status means that it can be used an unlimited number of times.

The Pros And Cons Of Thorn Whip

Every spell and ability in Dungeons and Dragons has its pros and cons, so let’s take a look at some of those associated with the Thorn Whip spell. 

Pros

• Versatile: Thorn Whip can be used to attack enemies or grab onto creatures and pull the caster towards them, as well as to move teammates around the battlefield. This makes it a useful spell in a variety of situations.
• Low-level: Thorn Whip is a cantrip, which means that it can be used repeatedly without expending a spell slot. This makes it an attractive choice for spellcasters looking to conserve higher-level spell slots.
• Nature-Based: Thorn Whip is a nature-based spell, which fits thematically with druid and ranger characters.
• Range: Thorn Whip has a range of 30 feet, which can allow the caster to stay at a safe distance from enemies and still deal damage.
• Pulling effect: Thorn Whip pulls the target towards the caster, which can be useful for bringing enemies closer or for moving objects or creatures around.
• Damage type: Thorn Whip deals piercing damage, which can be useful against enemies with vulnerabilities to piercing damage.

Cons

• Limited range: Thorn Whip’s range is only 30 feet, which is relatively short compared to other ranged spells. This can make it difficult to use in large open spaces or against enemies that are far away.
• Low damage: Thorn Whip only deals 1d6 piercing damage, which is relatively low compared to other offensive spells. This means that it may not be the best choice for dealing damage in combat situations.
• Limited target size: Thorn Whip’s ability to pull targets towards the caster only works on targets that are Large or smaller. This means that it may not be effective against larger enemies.
• Limited when it comes to moving objects: Thorn Whip is described as a “vine-like whip covered in thorns that lashes out at your command toward a creature in range.” This doesn’t specify moving objects, so it is up to your DM whether this is something you can do. If you can’t, then Thorn Whip becomes even more limited.
• Limited utility: While the pulling effect of Thorn Whip can be useful in certain situations, it may not be as versatile or useful in as many situations as other spells with broader effects or greater utility.
• Material Component: Thorn Whip requires a stem or piece of a thorny plant as a material component, which may not always be readily available in certain environments.

Similar Spells To Thorn Whip

If you enjoy using Thorn Whip in DnD, then you might be interested in more spells that are similar in terms of mechanics and effects. With this in mind, let’s take a look at some similar spells that you might enjoy if you like Thorn Whip:

Lightning Lure

Lightning Lure is an evocation cantrip that, like Thorn Whip, allows the caster to pull enemies toward them. However, instead of dealing piercing damage like Thorn Whip, Lightning Lure deals lightning damage and can pull the enemy up to 15 feet closer.

Grasping Vine

Grasping Vine is a 4th-level conjuration spell that creates a magical vine that can attack enemies within a 30-foot range. The vines will sprout from the ground into an unoccupied space of your choosing, as long as it is within range.

Entangle

Entangle is a 1st-level conjuration spell that creates a grasping tangle of vines, weeds, and roots that covers a 20-foot square area of ground.

Creatures within the area must make a Strength saving throw or become restrained. Entangle doesn’t deal damage like Thorn Whip, but it can be more effective at controlling groups of enemies.

Bigby’s Hand

Bigby’s Hand is a 5th-level evocation spell that creates a magical, translucent hand that can be used to attack enemies, push or pull them, or perform other actions.

While Bigby’s Hand is more versatile than Thorn Whip, it also requires a higher-level spell slot and may be less effective in certain situations.

Green-Flame Blade

Green-Flame Blade is an evocation cantrip that allows the caster to make a melee weapon attack that deals extra fire damage to one target and also deals fire damage to another target within 5 feet of the first target.

This spell is similar to Thorn Whip in that it deals damage and has a secondary effect that can hit multiple targets.

Sword Burst

Sword Burst is a conjuration cantrip that causes a burst of energy in the form of a circle of spectral blades to emanate from the caster, hitting all creatures within 5 feet of them. This spell is similar to Thorn Whip in that it deals damage in a small area and can hit multiple targets.

Vampiric Touch

Vampiric Touch is a 3rd-level necromancy spell that allows the caster to cast a melee spell attack that deals necrotic damage and also heals the caster for half the damage dealt. This spell is similar to Thorn Whip in that it deals damage and has a secondary effect that benefits the caster.

Witch Bolt

Witch Bolt is a 1st-level evocation spell that creates a beam of blue, crackling energy that connects the caster to one target. The target takes lightning damage each turn the spell is maintained, allowing the caster to continue dealing damage without having to cast another spell.

This spell is similar to Thorn Whip in that it deals damage and has a secondary effect that allows the caster to maintain the spell for additional damage.

Spells That Work Well With Thorn Whip

Thorn Whip can be used in combination with other spells to create powerful combos or to enhance its effectiveness. Here are a few spells that can work well with Thorn Whip:

Entangle

The previously mentioned Entangle is a 1st-level Druid spell that can restrain enemies in a targeted area. If you choose to use Entangle alongside Thorn Whip, Entangle can keep enemies in place while the caster pulls them closer with Thorn Whip.

Spike Growth

Spike Growth is a 2nd-level transmutation spell that creates an area of difficult terrain covered in sharp spikes. When used in combination with Thorn Whip, enemies who attempt to move out of the spiked area may be pulled back in by the caster using Thorn Whip.

Darkness

Darkness is a 2nd-level evocation spell that creates a sphere of darkness that obscures vision. When used in combination with Thorn Whip, the caster can pull enemies into the sphere of darkness, making it more difficult for them to attack or escape.

Hold Person

Hold Person is a 2nd-level enchantment spell that can paralyze a humanoid enemy. When used with Thorn Whip, the caster can pull the paralyzed enemy closer for an easier attack.

Faerie Fire

Faerie Fire is a 1st-level evocation spell that outlines enemies in a targeted area with a glowing aura of either green, violet, or blue light. When used alongside Thorn Whip, the caster can pull an enemy into the glowing aura, which can then give allies an advantage on attacks against them.

Ensnaring Strike

Ensnaring Strike is a 1st-level Ranger conjuration spell that entangles an enemy in vines when the caster successfully hits them with a weapon attack.

This is a power that is aesthetically a good match with Thorn Whip as well as one that matches in terms of power, as the caster can pull an enemy that is already entangled by Ensnaring Strike with the Thorn Whip, allowing for closer additional attacks.

Grasping Vine

Grasping Vine is a 4th-level conjuration Druid spell that creates a vine that can pull the caster or an ally towards a targeted location or enemy. When used alongside Thorn Whip, the caster can pull an enemy closer to the Grasping Vine, allowing allies to attack them.

Cloud Of Daggers

Cloud of Daggers is a 2nd-level conjuration spell that creates a 5-foot cube of spinning daggers. This can be a very effective spell to use alongside Thorn Whip, as the caster can use Thorn Whip to pull an enemy into the cube of daggers for additional damage.

Wall Of Thorns

Last but not least, Wall of Thorns is a level six conjuration spell that creates a wall of tangled brush that is full of needle-sharp thorns.

The wall can appear within range and on a solid surface and can be anywhere up to 10 feet high, 60 feet long and 5 feet thick. It can also be a circle of 20 feet in diameter, 5 feet in thickness, and 20 feet high if you so choose.

The caster could cast Wall of Thorns and then use Thorn Whip to drag an enemy into the brush, making for additional damage.

Setting Up A Gameplan For Thorn Whip

You now have all the information that you need regarding the Thorn Whip spell, so now it’s time to think of a gameplan when it comes to using it in your campaign!

There are all sorts of plans that you can initiate to utilize Thorn Whip, so let’s go through a few general steps when it comes to incorporating the spell into your campaign as effectively as possible.

Understand The Spell’s Strengths And Limitations

Thorn Whip is a ranged spell that can pull enemies closer to the caster. It deals piercing damage and has a range of 30 feet. It is most effective against enemies with weaker AC or lower Strength scores. Make sure you understand these strengths and limitations so you can use the spell effectively.

Position Yourself For Success

Position yourself in a location where you have a clear line of sight to your targets and where they are within 30 feet of you. Try to position yourself behind cover or with allies between you and the enemy to avoid being targeted by ranged attacks.

Identify Suitable Targets

Thorn Whip is best used against targets that are within 30 feet of the caster and have a lower AC or a weaker Strength score. Identify enemies that are susceptible to being pulled closer, such as archers or spellcasters.

Combine Thorn Whip With Other Spells And Abilities

Thorn Whip can be used in combination with other spells and abilities to create powerful combos, such as some of the other spells that we mentioned above.

Balance Encounters Appropriately

Make sure encounters are balanced appropriately for the party’s level and abilities. Thorn Whip can be a powerful tool, but it is not a substitute for a well-balanced party with a variety of abilities and tactics.

Follow Up With Additional Attacks

Use your bonus action or a subsequent action to attack the target with a weapon or another spell. If the target is now within melee range, you can use melee attacks or spells to finish them off.

Adjust Your Strategy As Needed

If Thorn Whip is not effective against a particular enemy or group of enemies, adjust your strategy accordingly. Consider using other spells or weapons, or focus on a different target.

Final Thoughts

Thorn Whip is a spell that offers a lot of potential for creative play and strategic combat during a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. It can be an effective way to pull enemies closer to the caster, deal damage, and set up combos with other spells and abilities.

However, it does have some limitations, such as its relatively short range and the fact that it requires a ranged spell attack roll. Ultimately, whether Thorn Whip is worth it or not depends on the player’s play style, the campaign’s setting, and the type of enemies they face.

With proper planning, positioning, and creativity, Thorn Whip can be a powerful addition to any spellcaster’s arsenal in D&D 5e.

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