Subfloral

DeCandolle (1830) divided the family into two groups based on the presence or absence of a subfloral bract or calyculus.

Gynoecial plants somewhat more robust, bracts to 1050- 1350 mu wide (leaves near gynoecia with disk often 4-5 cells high and 12 cells wide at base); bracts and subfloral leaves grading into each other, maximally variable with vigor;

The stems in this family often bear subfloral innovations below the gametangia.