Describe the typical flora of tundra biomes.

Tundra biomes typically feature low-growing plants like mosses, lichens, grasses, and dwarf shrubs.

The tundra biome, characterised by its cold, harsh climate and permafrost soil, hosts a unique variety of flora. The most common types of plants found in this biome are mosses and lichens. These plants are well-adapted to the tundra's harsh conditions, as they can grow on rocks and soil, and can survive in extremely cold temperatures. Mosses and lichens are also able to photosynthesise under the snow, allowing them to grow year-round.

In addition to mosses and lichens, the tundra is home to a variety of grasses. These grasses, like sedge and cottongrass, are able to grow in the tundra's poor soil and withstand its strong winds. They also provide a valuable food source for the tundra's herbivorous wildlife, such as caribou and musk oxen.

Dwarf shrubs are another common type of plant found in the tundra. These shrubs, which include species like the Arctic willow and crowberry, are adapted to the tundra's conditions in several ways. They have shallow root systems to take advantage of the thin layer of thawed soil, and their small size helps them resist the tundra's strong winds. Additionally, many dwarf shrubs have dark-coloured leaves to absorb as much heat from the sun as possible.

Despite the harsh conditions, the tundra is also home to a variety of flowering plants. These plants, which include species like the Arctic poppy and purple saxifrage, bloom during the short tundra summer when the temperature rises above freezing. These flowering plants have adapted to the tundra's conditions by growing close to the ground to avoid the wind, and by having hairy stems and leaves to trap heat.

In conclusion, the flora of the tundra biome is diverse and well-adapted to its harsh conditions. Despite the cold temperatures, strong winds, and poor soil, a variety of plants are able to thrive in this unique biome.