The Shortest Tree in the World
The shortest tree in the world is the dwarf willow (Salix herbacea), also called the Arctic dwarf willow.
This tiny woody plant grows to a maximum height of only 1–6 cm (0.4–2.4 inches), with most specimens rarely exceeding 2.5 inches or about 5 cm tall. At maturity, it typically measures about 6 × 2 cm in height and breadth.
The dwarf willow lives in Arctic and subarctic regions, as well as areas above 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) in elevation. It survives in these extremely cold climates by staying low to the ground in creeping, prostrate mats, which protects it from harsh winds and helps retain heat.
Despite its miniature size, the dwarf willow technically qualifies as a tree because it is a woody plant with a stem. However, some botanists debate its classification since it doesn't meet the traditional definition of a tree that requires a trunk at least 3 inches in diameter.
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