Flowers usually zygomorphic and bisexual.
A epipetalous and 2 of the 4 stamens are longer than the others. Inflorescence is solitary, spike, raceme or thyrse. Fruit usually a dry capsule, rarely indehiscent, rarely a berry or schizocarp. Seeds have oily endosperm which is smooth or has intricately sculptured surface that is sometimes angled or winged. Embryo is straight or slightly curved.