Shrubs evergreen, small. Leaves alternate or decussate; leaf blade linear, margin serrulate. Inflorescence terminal, umbellate, 2–15-flowered, bracteate. Calyx small, 5-parted, persistent. Corolla urceolate, 5-toothed. Stamens (8–)10(–12), included; anthers dehiscing by pores. Style slender. Capsule globose, 5-locular, loculicidal. Seeds ovoid, lustrous.

About seven species: widespread N temperate regions; two species (one endemic) in China.

(Authors: Yang Hanbi (杨汉碧 Yang Han-pi); David F. Chamberlain)