THE ROYAL FERN. 



particular concerning the soil in which you grow 

 it, but the nearer you can approach to the con- 

 ditions under which it is found growing in 

 greatest luxuriance in its native woods, heaths, 

 and bogs, the greater success will attend your 

 cultivation of it. 



5, 



THE ROYAL FERN. 



Osmunda regalis. 



PLATE 1, FIG. 5. 



F royal and noble aspect, indeed, is the 

 Royal or Flowering Fern. It is the 

 largest and grandest of our native 

 species, and approaches more nearly than any 

 other to the form of a tree Fern. Its 

 favourite habitats are the banks of moorland 

 streams where it can secure abundant moisture, 

 and a soft, spongy, peaty soil. Oftentimes it is 

 found in damp woods, growing in such situations 

 to an average height of four, five, or six feet. It 



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