Final answer:
The biome characterized by a cold harsh climate and short growing season is the Taiga biome, also known as the boreal forest.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biome characterized by a cold harsh climate and short growing season is the Taiga biome, also known as the boreal forest. The taiga biome is located in subarctic regions and is dominated by coniferous trees. It has a subarctic, semi-arid climate with a short growing season and poor soil quality.