in botany: A genus of the monogyne order, belonging to the diandra clas of plants; and in the natural method ranking under the 40th order, Perforatae. The corolla is ringent; the capsule bilocular, parting with a spring at the heel; the stamina each furnished with two antheræ placed alternately.—There is only one species, a native of Virginia and other parts of North America. It is a low herbaceous plant, with a perennial root, sending out upright stalks a foot high, garnished with long narrow leaves of an aromatic odour, standing close to the stalks. From the side of the stalks the footstalks of the flowers are produced, sustaining small spikes of flowers.—This plant is very difficult to be preserved in Britain; for though it is hardy enough to live in the open air, it is very subject to rot in winter. It may be propagated by seeds sown on a gentle hot-bed; and in the winter the plants must be kept in a dry stove.