Basellaceae

Climbing, perennial, glabrous, ± succulent herbs. Stipules 0. Leaves alternate, usually ovate with a cordate base; margin entire. Flowers in spikes, racemes or panicles, bisexual, actinomorphic. Sepals 2. Petals 5, free or ± united, persistent. Stamens 5, opposite the petals. Ovary superior, 1-locular; ovule 1. Styles usually 3. Fruit indehiscent and fleshy, enclosed by the persistent perianth.

Worldwide: 4 genera and 20 species, tropical and warm regions, especially America.