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PLATYCERU'M GRANDE. 



This remarkably strange but interesting- plant, of which our illus- 

 tration represents a full-grown specimen in miniature, taken from 

 life, is one of the family of Ferns, belonging to the class Crypto- 

 gamia. According to the present state of botanical nomenclature, 

 Ferns are di\-ided and subdivided into various groups ; the present 

 species is one of the representatives of the tribe Acrosticheep, and is 

 denominated Platycerium, in allusion to a broad horn, which the 

 fronds resemble. There are only three species belonging to this 

 genus at present in cultivation, all epiphytical,* attaching them- 

 selves to rocks or trees in their native localities, in moist situations, 

 and existing upon the decayed vegetable matter formed with their 

 own fronds and roots. They have a very striking appeai-ance, and 

 are highly ornamental, from the horizontal and pendulous position 

 of the fertile fronds contrasting with the more erect habit of the 

 sterile ones and the hom-like process of the disc. Without fertile 



* Adhering to other plants for support, and vegetating amidst the decayed 

 vegetable matter that is collected at the fo-^t or on the trunks of all trees grow- 

 ing in a hot humid climate. 



