Those high altitude plants are very distinct because of their way of growing together cushion- or carpet-like. Many, looking at them for the first time, think of them as mosses but they are higher vascular plants displaying tiny flowers. Often they indicate humid and acid soil conditions and a whole area is  covered by them. Their root system is numerous and penetrates deep into  the peaty paramo soil. Sometimes other plants grow in their cushions and give a beautiful floral arrangement.
 
For more information and explanation of flowering plants,
click to information.biodiversity.plants of our Ecuador-Travelnet.