The paramo grasslands are characterized as a humid and cold region dominated by large grass species (Poaceae, Cyperaceae) some of which can grow up to 1.5 meters tall in clumps. At lower elevations shrubs and small leathery leaved trees are also present. The ground is covered with mosses, lichens and ferns. Small isolated patches of the regionally threatened keñua (Polylepis spp.) forest are also found in this habitat.