[1] They are linear, single-stranded positive sense RNA viruses (and are therefore group IV).

[1][3] Examples of species whose entire genomes have been sequenced that are currently classified into the genus include the Sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV) and the Lettuce infectious yellows virus (LIYV).

[4][5] The viruses of this genus have segmented, bipartite genomes that add up to 7,500–19,500 nucleotides in length.

The Universal Virus Database describes that their genome sequences near their 3'-ends are capable of hairpin-loop formation and also believe that their 5'-ends may have methylated caps.

[6] In the related genus Closterovirus, these secondary structures have been found to be important in viral RNA replication.