GOVENIA SUPERBA. 



Valladolid, where it is called by the natives azuzena amarilla. It must, however, 

 be admitted, that its stately appearance (attaining, as it does occasionally, the 

 height of five feet or more), together with the length of time it continues in 

 flower, render it a most conspicuous ornament of the stove. At present it is 

 rarely met with in collections. 



Our drawing was made from a plant in the collection of George Barker, Esq., 

 of Springfield. 



Another species is described by the same authors,* which, although smaller in 

 growth, must be equally striking in appearance. The flowers are stated to be 

 snow-white, variegated with purple lines, elegantly disposed in a thyrse-like spike. 

 This is also a native of the neighbourhood of Valladolid, where it has the name of 

 Azuzena del-monte, and flowers in the summer months. This species, however, 

 is not at present known in this country except by description. 



Govenia requires the humid stove when in a growing state, but should be kept 

 cool and dry when dormant. The soil should be peat and sand, with plenty of 

 drainers. It may be increased by dividing when strong enough for that purpose. 



The generic name was given by Dr. Lindley in compliment to James Robert 

 Gowen, Esq., "under whose care were conducted many of the curious experiments 

 upon cross-fertilization at Highclere, the seat of the Earl of Carnarvon." 



* Novorum vegetabilium Descripticmes. Fasciculus 2. 



