Perennial herbs with a horizontal, woody rhizome. Leaves all radical or on a short stem, simple, pinnatisect or pinnate, the petiole with sheathing, membranaceous, caducous wings. Inflorescence a terminal raceme, sometimes reduced to a single flower, with membranaceous bracts. Flowers 5-merous. Stamens 15-∞, usually in 3 bundles alternating with the carpels. Carpels usually 3, slightly coherent in the centre, with linear, recurved styles, with 2-6 or 10-20 ovules. Follicles irregularly dehiscing, with 1-15 seeds. Seeds with a white membranaceous aril.
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