Succulent annuals or perennials with alternate to sub-opposite fleshy sessile short, ovoid to sub-globular leaves. Inflorescence compact, spiciform, usually terminal. Flowers perfect or pistillate clustered in group of 3; perianth 3-merous, small, obconical, united almost completely; stamens 1 or 2 ; pistil with vertical ovary and 2 stigmas; utricle included, with membranous pericarp; seed ellipsoid with hook-shaped embryo.