Deciduous trees and shrubs of the genus (Lythraceae). The young branches are usually square. The leaves are opposite, stalked or sessile. The leaf margins are smooth.

The terminal flower spikes are grapey similar to lilac. Depending on the variety in the flower color varies, there are pink, purple, purple and white varieties. The flowers are hermaphrodite and sixfold, mostly radial symmetry, only the stamens are unscheduled. The flower is one funnel-shaped cup. It is constructed a double perianth. The sepals are fused and appear to sixth, or they do not exist. There are usually many, rarely 6 to 12, acyclic arranged fertile stamens present. Three to six carpels have grown to become an above ovary, with a pistil with a heady stigma. Pollination is by insects. Capsule fruits are formed, containing winged seeds.