Shrubs erect, with prickles in pairs or scattered, often bristly. Stipules broad or narrow, adnate to petiole; leaflets 5–15. Flowers usually numerous, rarely solitary, with large, broad bracts. Sepals often entire, after anthesis erect, persistent, rarely deciduous, styles free, not or slightly exserted.

About 50 species: Asia, Europe, North America; 36 species (26 endemic) in China.