If you have spent much time among rock outcrops, badlands, or the Rocky Mountains, you’ve probably seen trees and shrubs sprouting from what looks like solid rock.

It all starts with that little seed swelling with water and germinating in a little loose rock, or a minute crack. The plant takes root with incredible force, growing and swelling and placing amazing force into the microscopic cracks of the host rock. Aided by thawing and freezing, the cracks increase in size and the process continues.