Macolla

A macolla, in botany, refers to a dense cluster or tuft of stems or leaves that arise from the base of a plant, often near the soil surface. It is a characteristic growth habit observed in various grasses, sedges, and other herbaceous plants. The term typically describes a compact, bushy form rather than a single, isolated stem. The stems in a macolla often share a common root system or are connected through rhizomes or other underground structures. This clustered growth pattern can provide the plant with resilience and the ability to spread vegetatively. Macollas can also provide microhabitats for small animals and insects.