CEEATOPTEEIS. 25 



The sterile or barren fronds are beautifully veined, thrice- 

 pinnated, also reflexed at the edges. In the hollow of the 

 segments of the fronds there are little knobs which throw 

 out roots, and will, in consequence, form plants if properly 

 managed. 



CEEATOPTEEIS THALICTBIOIDES (Thalictrum-like), Fig. 11. 

 An annual aquatic stove Fern, common in ponds in hot countries. 



Fig. 11. Ceratopteris thalictrioides. (Parts of barren and fertile fronds ; 

 piece of fertile one magnified.) 



We have grown this Fern in large pots, just set overhead in 

 a cistern, in the Orchid-house, fully 3 feet high, with both kinds 

 of fronds in high perfection. The plants, being only annual, 

 die in the winter ; but if young plants are raised, either from 



