Approximately 200 species of perennials and subshrubs from temperate and colder regions of both hemispheres. They have simple leaves, either in opposite pairs or alternate and four-petalled flowers with long, stalk-like ovaries, usually in terminal racemes but sometimes solitary and axillary.
The genus is one of contrasts containing many dull weeds and several pleasing garden plants. Only species in the latter category are really worthy of a place on the rock garden, raised bed, scree or alpine house. Ordinary fertile well drained but not dry soil and a sunny site are required, though some shade is tolerated. Propagation by seed or careful division in spring. Cuttings also can be taken in late spring and late summer.
a, E. corymbosa; b, E. dodonaei; c, E. glabellum; d, E. latifolia;