Stamens inserted on the corolla-tube and alternate with its lobes; anthers 2-celled, cells parallel, opening lengthwise or by apical pores
Ovary 2-celled, the cells sometimes again divided by a false septum; style terminal
Corolla gamopetalous, usually 5-lobed, lobes folded, contorted or valvate
Seeds with copious endosperm and curved or annular embryo
Flowers hermaphrodite, mostly actinomorphic
Leaves alternate, simple; stipules absent
Calyx 4-6-lobed, persistent
Ovules very numerous, axile
Fruit a capsule or berry
Herbaceous or woody