[3] Colobanthus quitensis has yellow flowers and grows about 5 centimetres (2 inches) tall, with a cushion-like growth habit that gives it a moss-like appearance.

[5] Endophytic fungi have been found living inside of the leaves of Colobanthus quitensis, including saprobic and pathogenic fungal species.

Research studies have shown that these fungi are able to produce melanin in their hyphae, which may be the reason they are able to withstand freezing temperatures.

[9] Within Antarctica, due to climate change, more seeds are germinating, creating a large number of seedlings and plants.

Research found that the Antarctic pearlwort spread nearly ten times faster during the period 2009 through 2018 compared to between 1960 and 2009.