26 FERNS 



below and silvery green above, the colour 

 deepens as full development is attained and 

 the "brown stuff" in the midst of a luxuriant 

 frond testifies to the unique method Nature 

 employs for the propagation of the species, and 

 gives rise to the common name of interrupted 

 fern. This fern is second only to the ostrich 

 fern (Matteuccia Strutbiopteris) in stately grace 

 and its superior beauty of colour and veining. 

 The most artistic effects are produced by 

 associating contrasting species. In the sec- 

 ond group illustrated the blue-green fronds 

 of Goldie's shield fern (Dryopteris Goldieana) 

 are largely in evidence. A few delicately cut 

 fronds of the American royal fern (Osmunda 

 spectabilis) serve as an excellent foil.* The 

 bladder fern (Filix bulb if era) relieves the 

 vivid green of the oak fern (Pbegopterts 

 Dryopteris), which carpets the space between 

 the groups. 



[* The best authorities now agree that the American and European 

 osmundas are not identical. The name of 0. re gaits is retained for 

 the latter, our plant taking the name of 0. spectabilis, which, as a 

 matter of fact, was given to it a hundred years ago by Wildenow. The 

 fronds of the European species as they arise from the ground are much 

 stronger and bolder looking than those of the native plant. EDITOR.] 



