SafePlants

Diapensia lapponica: The Pincushion Plant

Diapensia lapponica, commonly known as the pincushion plant or Lapland Diapensia, is a fascinating dwarf shrub found in harsh environments.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant forms dense cushions.
• It is a low-growing shrub.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Diapensia lapponica L.
• Common Names: Pincushion plant, Lapland Diapensia, Arctic Diapensia
• Family: Diapensiaceae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Diapensia lapponica var. obovata F. Schmidt, Diapensia obovata (F. Schmidt) Nakai, Diapensia lapponica subsp. lapponica

Distribution and Habitat

• Diapensia lapponica is a circumpolar species, meaning it's found in arctic and alpine regions around the world.
• It thrives on poor nutrient ground, often on high mountain tops.
• In the UK, it's restricted to a small quartz-rich rock outcrop.
• It is native to Canada.
• It can be found in Greenland.
• It can be found in Swedish Lapland.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial dwarf shrub with a long lifespan and slow growth rate.
• It forms dense, semi-spherical cushions or low-growing mats, typically 2 inches or less in height.
• The plant has evergreen leaves that form tight rosettes, often surrounding a flower.
• It features white, 5-lobed flowers and opposite leaves.
• Branches typically reach 3-8 cm.

Quirky Facts

• This plant is found in locations where winds are severe enough to keep snow cover light in winter.
• The cushion-plant inhabits alpine summits where it apparently hedges its pollination bets by having some individuals in the population flower at different times.

Ecological Role

• Diapensia lapponica shrublands characterize exposed alpine environments.

Further Information

• Database of Vascular Plants of Canada (VASCAN)
• BSBI List of British &amp Irish Vascular Plants and Stoneworts
• LINN 195.1 Diapensia lapponica (Herb Linn)
• Encyclopedia Britannica