Herbs annual. Stems ascending to erect. Leaves oblanceolate to elliptic; stipules absent. Inflorescences terminal, umbellate; bracts immediately subtending calyx absent. Sepals 5. Petals 5, irregularly toothed. Stamens 3--5(or 8--10). Ovary 1-loculed; ovules numerous; styles 3(4 or 5). Capsule cylindric, opening by 6(or 8 or 10) revolute teeth. Seeds numerous, dorsiventrally compressed, rugulose; embryo straight.

About four species: Europe and Mediterranean region to C Asia; one species in China.

(Authors: Lu Dequan; Richard K. Rabeler)