Shrubs or dwarf-shrubs with opposite branches. Leaves opposite, subulate or scale-like, often reduced to a triangular tip at end of joint. Inflorescences spicate or paniculate. Bracteoles (2) present. Flowers small, hermaphrodite, axillary, 5-merous. Perianth segments free, somewhat chaffy, the fruiting ones with horizontal wings. Anthers not or very slightly appendiculate; staminodes 5, semiorbicular, thick, papillose-glandular. Style short; stigmas 2-3, subulate, recurved, papillose on inner side. Fruit included in perianth. Seeds horizontal.