COMMON HART'S TONGUE. 79 



and the arrangement of the sori. It attains perfec- 

 tion in July and August, and remains green all the 

 winter. The difference of circumstances, especially in 

 cultivation, causes such changes in the appearance of 

 this plant that many varieties have been described ; 

 but few are, however, permanent, or requiring special 

 notice. Scolopendriwm crispum, Scolopendrium poly- 

 schides, Scolopendrium multifidum, and Scolopendrium 

 lacertum are those we have thought most permanent, 

 and likely to be met with. 



Some forms of this fem are viviparous, or have 

 buds separating from the stem and growing spon- 

 taneously. 



The Hart's Tongue and its varieties are commonly 

 found on shady banks, in the clefts of old rocks, and 

 about old buildings throughout Great Britain ; though 

 not so frequently in Scotland as elsewhere. In the 

 Isle of Wight it grows luxuriantly, and in the woody 

 spots between Yentnor and Niton may be seen in 

 perfection. It delights in underwoods and shrub- 

 beries ; and the large handsome tufts consist of fronds 

 arching from the centre, like the long feathers of a 

 cock's tail. 



Being an evergreen, and a plant of free growth, the 

 Hart's Tongue is one of the most desirable hardy ferns 

 for open rock-work. It will do in any part of it, 

 either on level ground or on rocks by the sides of 

 streams, where its fronds can hang over the water. 

 In this situation it is a beautiful object. It requires 

 a great deal of water at the roots during the growing 

 season, and delights in shade and moisture, although 



