Sprengistjörnur

Sprengistjörnur are a type of flowering plant that belongs to the genus Saxifraga. This genus comprises approximately 450 species of perennials, and it's widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. Sprengistjörnur specifically are characterized by their multiple stems that grow up to a height of 10-20 centimeters. They create a dense mat-like groundcover due to their arrangement.

The flowers of the Sprengistjörnur plant appear in early spring and are shaped like a bell or a cup. They usually range in color from a pale yellow to pink, and occasionally white. The corolla of these flowers is comprised of five parts. The petals are slightly crimped, and this particular arrangement helps to categorize Sprengistjörnur as a member of the Saxifragaceae or Saxifrage family.

One unique feature of this plant is its ability to produce its offspring by the means of spreading runners. Sprengistjörnur performs this task during the spring and the start of summer. This method of reproduction plays a crucial role in the geographical extent of this plant.

In Iceland, Sprengistjörnur are known to thrive in eastern regions. These regions mainly include glacial outwash plains, which provide suitable conditions for the growth of Sprengistjörnur. In such environments, the plant thrives in arctic-alpine ecotypes, locations that are known for their varied yet specifics harsh climatic and geological features.