THE VERVEIN FAMILY (Verbenaceae)

This a family of mainly tropical flowering plants containing trees, shrubs and herbs. Recent phylogenetic studies have shown that numerous genera traditionally classified in Verbenaceae belong instead in Lamiaceae (the mint family). The new, narrowly circumscribed Verbenaceae family includes some 35 genera and 1,200 species. Economically important examples include Vervain (Verbena), some used in herbalism, others grown in gardens.

Stems are often square in section, leaves usually arranged oppositely, either simple or 3-lobed.

The flowers usually have tubular 5-merous petals and sepals (though variations can occur), notable for heads, spikes, or clusters of small flowers, many of which have an aromatic smell.

(source: Wikipedia)