Shrubs or trees. Leaves simple, opposite, entire, exstipulate (sometimes with rudimentary stipules). Inflorescence densely fascicled or laxly panicled. Flowers actinomorphic, bisexual or unisexual (plants monoecious or dioecious when flowers unisexual) . Calyx campanulate or ovoid with 2-4 connate sepals. Corolla of 4-5 free or connate petals, campanulate, imbricate or contorted in bud. Stamens 4-5, inserted on the corolla tube, alternating with petals; filaments free or connate at the base; anthers dithecous, ovate, dehiscing longitudinally. Disc absent or composed of 4 glands or scales, alternating with the filaments. Ovary superior, bicarpellate, 1-2-locular; ovules 1-2 in each locule with basal placentation; style short or absent, stigma entire or bifid. Fruit a berry or a drupe, usually one seeded. Seeds erect, globose, exalbuminous; embryo with thick cotyledons.