Lythraceae

Lythrum is from the Greek lythron blood referring to the colour of the flowers of the first one described. Chiefly herbs but there are also shrubs and trees; leaves simple, usually opposite or whorled, occasionally alternate. Inflorescence various; flowers with a distinct calyx and corolla, petals usually crumpled in bud and usually clawed. Fruit a capsule dehiscent or non-dehiscent.