Most species grow at higher elevations. All species are similar with coarse, erect plants about 1–2.5 m tall with short perennial rootstalks. The leaves are smooth, alternate, parallel veined, broadly oval to lanceolate, up to 30 cm long, 15 cm wide, in three ranks and sheathed at the base.

A high volume of winter snow, harsh winds, and cold night temperatures create the signature climate of the alpine, which is home to a unique array of plants and animals. The cold climate, rocky soil, and heavy wind make growth difficult for large trees that thrive at lower altitudes.

Provisioning services: Alpine grasslands serve as a source of forage with minimal investment (where animals are grazed without the need for additional pasture resources) or can be easily converted into agricultural land where water resources allow for farming.

Alpine meadows form where sediments from the weathering of rocks has produced soils well-developed enough to support grasses and sedges. Non-flowering lichens cling to rocks and soil.