Humea
(named after Lady Hume, once of Worme-leybury, Herts). SYNS. Agathomeris, Calomeria. ORD. Compositae. A genus comprising four species of herbs or shrubs, limited to Australia. Flower-heads small and numerous, in a loose terminal panicle, or in compact corymbs. Leaves alternate, quite entire. the best-known and most frequently cultivated species is H. elegans, a very ornamental plant, when well grown, for greenhouse decoration or sub-tropical gardening. It is a biennial. The seed should be sown in July, in light, finely-sifted soil, and placed in any cool frame. When the plants appear, they should be potted, taking care not to injure the roots. Grow on in a frame or cool house, where plenty of light and air are available, and keep the roots nearly dry throughout the winter. In spring, gradually encourage growth, and pot on, placing into about 9in. pots as a final shift. The plants seldom succeed, unless very carefully treated in potting and watering. They do not like syringing, unless when growing strongly in warm weather. Being tender, they must not be planted outside before June, and must then be staked and protected from rough winds. A rich soil, composed of loam and decayed manure, with a little charcoal added, should be used, when potting, after the young plants are once established.
H. elegans (elegant).* fl.-heads brownish-red, pink, or crimson, minute, disposed in a large, loosely-branched, terminal, drooping panicle. July to October. l. large, oblong or lanceolate, clasping or decurrent at the base. h. 5ft. to 6ft.