In this revision of the endemic Australian genus, Pachynema R. Br. ex DC., seven species are recognised, three of which are newly described: P. diffusum, P. hooglandii and P. praestans. Pachynema species exhibit more diverse life forms than were recorded previously for the genus. Well developed, functional leaves are reported for the first time. The aerial stems are interpreted as elaborate inflorescences which, secondarily, may be modified into non-flowering, 'vegetative' stems.