36 LANCEOLATE SPLEEN WORT. 



The scarcity of this fern prevents our saying much 

 as to its artificial growth in the open air. 



It is much prized in Germany and the south of 

 France, and is frequently brought here from thence 

 as a foreign plant. We have seen it growing luxu- 

 riantly in a glass case, in the smoky atmosphere of 

 London ; but it is seldom that it succeeds so well in 

 artificial circumstances. In attempting its cultivation, 

 however, care must be taken that moisture should not 

 accumulate on the fronds, or stagnate about the roots ; 

 it must be kept as dry as possible without causing 

 positive drought. 



LANCEOLATE SPLEENWORT. 



ASPLENIUM LANCEOLATUM. 



[Smith, Moore, JBabington, and Neumum.] 

 (Fig. 9.) 



THIS is a low tufted fern, with twice-pinnate lan- 

 ceolate fronds, which are usually three to six inches 

 high, the longest pinnse rather below the middle 

 of the frond. They are ovate, deeply and sharply 

 t oothed or lobed. The sori are two to four on each 

 segment, distinct and oblong when young, but when 

 old united into an irregular mass, and covering the 

 upper part of the segment. It is not in perfection 

 until September or October, and remains green through 

 the winter. 



