FERNS IOI 
OTHER FERNS 
The Holly fern (Cyrtomium falcatum) is another 
very desirable house plant and has been a favorite 
for years. It has very dark green substantial glossy 
foliage, and stands up well. There is a new Holly 
fern, however, which I think will replace C. fal- 
catum; it is C. Rochfordianum; its foliage is not 
only a richer deeper green, but the pinnae, or leaf- 
lets, are deeply cut and also wavy, and have given 
it the popular name of the Crested Holly fern. Be 
sure to try it among the next ferns you get. 
Fern balls, which are usually composed of one of 
the Davallias, sometimes prove unsatisfactory. Be 
sure in ordering to get them fresh from some re- 
liable mail order house, rather than take chances 
on them at the florist’s. The best way, however, 
is to get them already started. If you get them in 
dormant condition, soak in tepid water and then 
give a temperature as near sixty degrees at night as 
possible until they start. 
While not strictly members of the fern family, 
the asparagus used for decorative purposes under 
the name of Asparagus Ferns, are commonly classed 
with them. Since their introduction they have 
proved very popular indeed. 
Asparagus plumosus nanus, the Lace fern. No 
foliage is more beautiful than the feathery light 
green sprays of this asparagus. Notwithstanding 
its delicacy, it keeps wonderfully well when cut. 
