ARCTIC PLANTS
While plants in the arctic tundra include:
The arctic moss is a plant that grows in freshwater lakes. It has adapted to the strong winds of the tundra by growing close to the ground. It stores nutrients when it is not growing so new leaves can grow quickly next spring.
The arctic willow is a plant that grows in the tundra despite the permafrost, the freezing and thawing of the ice. It has shallow roots because of the permafrost and produces it's own pesticide to keep insects away.
The caribou moss is a lichen that grows on land and rocks. The caribou moss can go without water for a long time. It goes dormant or "go to sleep" when there is little or no water or light.
The diamond leaf willow grows near lakes creeks. It contains vitamin c and is good for medical reasons. Like most plants in the tundra, the willow is a cushion plant. It only grows a few inches and stays close to the ground.
The labrador tea is slightly poisonous and has many medical uses. It can grow up to five feet tall in southern hemisphere but in the northern latitudes of the tundra, it grows over the ground.