[3] Their stems are variously but irregularly branched and in many species are prostrate and creeping, rooting at nodes.

In shape the leaves are simple, and those of various species vary from elliptic, through lanceolate, to short linear.

Consistency on this respect is most likely an adaptation to favour preferred pollinators, as it permits them to perform their functions most efficiently, both for the plant and for their own reproductive success.

The anthers, and in some species the upper parts of the filaments of the stamens, are joined into a ring around the style.

The style is thread-like, bent, and divides into slender, elongated flat stigmas that are hairy at their bases and protrude from the ring of anthers.

[5] Many of the species are desirable as informal plants because of their unobtrusive habit, simple maintenance, and vivid colours.

Bushier species such as Monopsis unidentata do well as deeper ground covers in damp spots or in beds and pots as well as fillers in nooks and crannies in gardens where many other more formal plants either are troublesome or refuse to grow satisfactorily.