Small clumps (5)
I believe the answer is:
tufts
'small clumps' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for tufts that I've seen before include "Bunches of hairs" , "Bunches of hair or grass" , "Clumps" , "Bunches of threads or feathers" .)