Herbs perennial. Taproot woody, crown surrounded by fibrous remnant sheaths. Stem ribbed, lower branches alternate, the upper opposite, whorled or cymose. Leaves 2–4-pinnate-pinnatisect; petioles wholly sheathing. Umbels compound, terminal or lateral; bracts small, deciduous; bracteoles several. Flowers polygamous. Calyx teeth conspicuous, subulate-lanceolate, persistent. Petals white, oblong to ovate, base clawlike, apex notched and slightly incurved. Stylopodium low-conic; styles reflexed. Fruit biglobose (didymous), broader than long, glabrous, not separating at maturity; pericarp leathery; ribs inconspicuous (Chinese species); vittae obscure. Seed face concave. Carpophore fused to mericarps.

About seven species: C Asia, Europe; one species in China.

(Authors: Pan Zehui (潘泽惠); Mark F. Watson)