CISTOPTERIS. 37 



kept moderately dry, cool at the root, with 

 fresh air, in rich vegetable soil, and be 

 transplanted in the spring, while yet dor- 

 mant. Curious, but of no particular inte- 

 rest or beauty. This and Ophioglossum 

 alone grow up straight, and not curled 

 inward crosier-fashion. The Botrychium 

 is that which was formerly supposed to 

 have magical powers, if duly gathered by 

 moonlight. 



CISTOPTERIS. 



Sori on the back, in round masses. Indusium 

 bladder-shaped, attached under the sori at 

 the part furthest from, and opposite to, the 

 points of the pinnule ; eventually retorted, 

 or cast off entirely. 



CISTOPTERIS FRAGILIS. (Brittle Bladder Fern.} 

 Fig. 21. From 5 to 10 inches. Root 

 tufted. Growing in masses. A very 

 lovely little tender plant, extremely deli- 

 cate, yet hardy, coming out early, going 

 off late, and throwing out successions of 

 fronds continually. Light green. Frond 

 tapering acutely to a fine point above, and 

 contracting downwards also. Pinnse com- 

 mencing near the bottom, apart, opposite, 

 or alternate, in some forms rather horizon- 



