in botany, a genus of the polygamia monocotyledonous clasps. The calyx of the male consists of six leaves; the corolla has five petals; and the stamens are numerous. The calyx and corolla of the female are the same as those of the male; the nectarium includes the germs and united anthers; and the capsule has five cells, five valves, and a stuffed pulp. The species are four, all natives of America.