Small to large, usually evergreen shrubs and small trees, very rarely epiphytic. Lvs simple, linear (or apparently very narrow because of revolute margins), opposite or whorled; petiole short. Infl. usually terminal, less commonly axillary, composed of umbels or racemes, sometimes paniculate. Fls nearly always subtended by bracts and bracteoles. Calyx of 4-(5) free sepals or deeply lobed, rarely shallowly lobed, sometimes petaloid, persistent. Corolla 4-(5)-lobed, deciduous or persistent; tube cylindric, campanulate or urceolate, widened or constricted at mouth; lobes usually < tube. Stamens 8-(10), included or exserted; anthers opening by lateral pores or slits, with or without awns. Capsule loculicidal, with many minute seeds.