265 



late Mr, Lowe. This plant perfects its tips under circum- 

 stances where the rest of the batch fail. This unique 

 specimen is growing in a square 9-inch pan only 2^ inches 

 deep, where it has been for several years ! It also promises 

 well for another season, for it has a good fat crown and six 

 full-sized fronds about 26 by 8 inches across. In the matter 

 of culture Mr. Druery evidently believes in letting well alone, 

 for had the plant been mine it would at least have been 

 installed in a lo-inch pot. 



Having rambled on so much and so far, and having 

 come to the climax in development there remains little more 

 to be said — except, perhaps, by the Editor — although I 

 am loth to leave this subject without referring to the 

 pitlchevviimnn section. All are heaiitifnl when in good con- 

 dition, while one is unique, viz. Moly's p. vaviegatiim. As a 

 rule variegated Ferns are not an acquisition — they savour of 

 disease ; but this one is distinctly and regularly marked with 

 a golden tint, and is moreover constant and recherche in 

 character. It is also aposporous, but Mr. Druery informs 

 me that the progeny are almost invariably depauperate and 

 inconstant. One more variety and I have done ; in fact, 

 I can almost hear some members say "overdone." [Ed. 

 No!] Mr. Phillips will not say so, for it is to his setoso- 

 cuneaUim that I wish to refer. Several years ago he sent 

 me a plant, and the sight of this invariably reminds me of 

 what he has done in the field, or rather mountain and 

 glen. And this one in particular is one of the best of his 

 many beautifubfinds, for it is lax in habit, silky in texture 

 and refined in appearance. My compliments to him 

 through the ** Gazette." 



If I may still further prolong this article, I would like to 

 offer a few notes on 



Cultivation. 



As all the ordinary varieties of polystichtims are hardy, 

 robust, and easily managed, there is no particular reason 

 tor detailing their cultivation in the garden or frame. 



