WOODWAEDIA. 



161 



a large-growing Fern. We have had it 3 feet high, and as 

 much through, the fronds spreading very much. Unless the 

 space in the greenhouse is large, this Fern should not be 

 introduced. Fronds irregularly pinnate, of a lively green; 



pinnse irregular in breadth 

 and length, with the edges 

 cut into pointed segments. 

 The fronds form at the top 

 a large knob, which soon 

 sends forth roots (hence the 

 name radicans}, and forms 

 new plants. It is a common, 

 rather coarse, but curious 

 Fern. There is a variety 

 of this Fern which is more 

 curious than beautiful ; it 

 is called interrupta, from 

 some of the pinnse being 

 depauperised or altogether 

 wanting. It is interesting, 

 but by no means so beau- 

 tiful as the true species. 



Two species have been 

 recently introduced from China and Japan under the names of 

 W. orientalis and W. japonica. They will in all probability 

 prove hardy, or very nearly so ; but as we have not ourselves 

 tried them out of doors (in fact with us they have been 

 growing in a stove, and evidently enjoying it), we refrain from 

 placing them among those which are proved to be truly hardy. 

 They are very proliferous, and consequently will soon be 

 plentiful. They appear to be much smaller plants than 

 W. radicans, and therefore more suitable for cultivation 

 where room is scarce. 



This completes our list of Greenhouse Ferns. We have 

 only to add a few hints on their culture. Like most other 



Fig. 73. Woodwardia radicans. (Part of 

 pinna natural size.) 



