Subshrubs much branched. Branchlets opposite, jointed. Leaves opposite, undeveloped, scale-like. Inflorescences sessile, spicate; bracts peltate, opposite; bractlets absent. Flowers axillary, (2 or)3 per bract, bisexual. Perianth 3-parted; segments broadly ovate, apex obtuse. Stamen 1. Ovary compressed ovoid; ovule anatropous; stigmas 2, subulate, papillate. Fruit a utricle. Seed vertical; embryo semi-annular; perisperm present.

One species: N Africa, Asia, S Europe.