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. Habit varies from trees and shrubs to herbs, which are sometimes aquatic or hemi-parasitic. Leaves are spirally arranged or opposite, both pinnately lobed or incised shapes are represented, simple and lacking stipules.