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What is a Cushion Plant?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A cushion plant is a plant which has adapted to a harsh environment by growing slowly, producing a dense, matted pile of plant material which grows close to the ground, insulating the plant from hostile conditions. Cushion plants can be found all over the world, and they are represented in a wide variety of plant families. Biologists often use the cushion plant to illustrate convergent evolution, showing how entirely different plants grow in much the same way because they have discovered that this particular way is the most efficient.

As you might gather from the name, a cushion plant looks rather like a cushion, although if you press down on it, you will discover that it is not very soft; some biologists jokingly refer to cushion plants as “bolsters” in reference to this. Cushion plants grow very slowly, and also extremely evenly, putting out rosettes of leaves all at once so that no one part of the plant is more exposed than others. When they flower, the flowers are small and often closely nestled in the leaves for protection.

Woman with a flower
Woman with a flower

Cushion plants are most commonly found in the arctic and alpine regions of the world, where the weather is cold, dry, and often windy. Normal plants could not thrive in these conditions, because they would be broken by heavy winds, frost-nipped, or unable to access water and nutrients. A cushion plant, on the other hand, can thrive because it insulates itself, and it has time to develop very deep, thick taproots which can penetrate the ground in search of water and nutrients.

The dense foliage of a cushion plant acts as a layer of insulation, protecting the roots and stems from inclement weather. The plants are typically further insulated with layers of dead plant material, and they sometimes host insects and small mammals which burrow into the plant for protection. Cushion plants also help their environments, reducing erosion and weathering while sequestering water.

These matted plants are very hardy, as you might imagine, which makes them a popular choice with some gardeners. However, gardeners need to think about the fact that cushion plants grow very slowly, and they will not be hurried. A cushion plant can make a great groundcover, when a lot is planted and the gardener has patience, but these plants are not candidates for rapid landscaping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a cushion plant?

A cushion plant is a type of plant adapted to grow in alpine and arctic environments, characterized by its compact, low-growing, and dome-shaped form. This growth pattern helps minimize exposure to cold winds and maximizes heat retention, creating a microclimate that can be several degrees warmer than the surrounding air.

Where can cushion plants typically be found?

Cushion plants are typically found in high-altitude or high-latitude environments where conditions are harsh and growing seasons are short. They thrive in mountainous regions around the world, including the Andes, the Alps, the Himalayas, and in arctic tundras, where they contribute to the biodiversity and stability of these fragile ecosystems.

How do cushion plants survive in such harsh conditions?

Cushion plants have adapted to survive in extreme conditions through their compact shape, which reduces wind damage and water loss. Their dense, matted foliage retains heat and moisture, and their deep root systems access water from below the surface. Additionally, they often have specialized leaves that reduce water loss and protect from UV radiation.

What ecological roles do cushion plants play in their environments?

Cushion plants play crucial ecological roles in their environments by acting as pioneer species that stabilize the soil and reduce erosion. They also provide habitats for microorganisms and insects, and in some cases, they are important forage for native herbivores. Their presence can enhance the survival of other plant species by ameliorating harsh conditions.

Are cushion plants important for biodiversity?

Yes, cushion plants are important for biodiversity. They often serve as keystone species in their ecosystems, supporting a variety of life forms. By creating warmer microhabitats, they allow other plant species to germinate and grow nearby, thus increasing the overall diversity of plant and animal life in the extreme environments where they are found.

Can cushion plants be grown in gardens or cultivated outside their natural habitat?

While cushion plants are specialized for extreme environments, some species can be cultivated in rock gardens or as part of alpine garden collections. Gardeners must replicate their natural conditions as closely as possible, providing well-drained soil, full sun exposure, and protection from excess moisture to successfully grow these unique and hardy plants.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • Woman with a flower
      Woman with a flower