Herbs [subshrubs], terrestrial [aquatic], glandular-pubescent. Stems ascending to prostrate, solid or pithy, not rooting at nodes [rooting at proximal nodes]. Leaves: stipules nearly membranous; petiole present; blade margins serrulate. Inflorescences usually cymes, rarely flowers solitary. Pedicels present. Flowers: sepals 5, distinct, equal, carinate, apex acuminate or acute; petals 5, apex acute; stamens (5 or 7–)10; pistil 5-carpellate; ovary 5-locular, apex ± acute; styles 5; stigmas 5. Capsules cartilaginous. Seeds 3–6[–10] per locule, brown, slightly curved, surface obscurely reticulate with rectangular pits. x = 6.

Distribution

w, c United States, n Mexico, Asia, Africa, Australia, introduced in South America, warm-temperate and tropical regions.

Discussion

Species ca. 25 (1 in the flora).

Bergia has its greatest diversity in Africa and Australia.

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

Bergia texana