Monoecious or dioecious much branched trees or shrubs. Leaves if well developed, acicular, linear or linear‑lanceolate and in whorls of 3 or reduced, scale‑like and opposite‑decussate; often both types on the same plant. Male cones with 3‑5 sporangia per scale. Female cones woody or berry‑like. Seeds winged or not.