in botany: A genus of the angiospermia order, belonging to the didynamia clas of plants; and in the natural method ranking under the 40th order, Perforatae. The calyx is quinquedentated; the stamina larger than the corolla; the style very long; the berry monoecious. There is but one species, viz., the pyramidata, with a blue pyramidal flower, and hoary leaves. It grows plentifully in several of the islands of the West Indies, also at Campeachy, and at La Vera Cruz. It rises to the height of 10 or 12 feet, with rude branches, the leaves being placed opposite. The flowers are produced in spikes at the end. end of the branches, and are of a fine blue colour. They usually appear in autumn, and will sometimes remain in beauty for two months or more. It is propagated either by seeds or cuttings, and makes a fine appearance in the stove; but is too tender to bear the open air in this country.