THE BRISTLE PERN. 



when the delicate, pellucid, filmy texture of the 

 fronds of this beautiful species is remembered, 

 why it is that it cannot exist except in an 

 atmosphere which is perpetually charged with 

 moisture. 



The Bristle Fern can only be grown under a 

 covering of glass ; but it may thus be cultivated 

 with great success, if due care be taken to imitate 

 as nearly as possible the conditions which are 

 natural to it. Peat, leaf-mould, and silver-sand, 

 with pieces of freestone, should compose the soil. 

 The plant should be placed between the pieces of 

 stone, and the pot or case in which it is contained 

 must be kept constantly covered with a glass shade 

 or frame, so as to retain the utmost possible amount 

 of moisture. Under such conditions it will grow 

 luxuriantly ; and it is well worthy of care, for it is 

 a plant of great rarity and of exquisite delicacy. 



271 



