[1][2] It is a low growing, highly compacted plant with white flowers, commonly found in alpine areas of the south, centre and west of Tasmania.

It can form a large spreading mat, often interspersed with other cushion plant species such as Oreobolus pumilio, Abrotanella forsteroides, Donatia novae-zelandiae and Mitrasacme archeri.

[4] The leaves of D. minimum are bright green and sessile, with reddish tips and a broad sheathing base as long as the blade, approx 3 to 4 mm (0.12 to 0.16 in).

[6] Cuchion plants are extremely slow growing and can occupy sites for a long period of time.

It is commonly found in alpine regions of the south, centre and west of Tasmania, at altitudes above 1,200 m (3,900 ft), where snow may lie for several months of the year.