Nyctagenaceae is a family of 30 genera and c. 290 species in tropical and subtropical parts of both the hemisphere especially in America. In Pakistan it is represented by 5 genera and 10 or 11 species. Plants are trees, herbs. Some plants are ornamental e.g. Mirabilis jalapa. Boerhavia (Boerhaavia) is genus of this family with c. 40 species. Plants are mostly herbs with opposite leaves, found in tropical and subtropical regions, S. Europe, and S. United States. In Pakistan it is represented by 4 or 5 species. Anthocarp of Boerhavia is 5-ribbed, which is the main difference in the Boerhavia and Commicarpus, having 10-ribbed anthocarp. A mini review is presented which cover data upto 2008.