ASPLENIUM. 77 



They are of leathery texture, but the veins are neverthe- 

 less tolerably evident, each pinna having a midvein, from 

 which venules are given off alternately on either side, there 

 again producing a series of veinlets. The sori are produced 

 on the anterior side of each venule, lying obliquely, and 

 forming two rows on each side the centre ; they are oblong 

 or linear, covered by a persistent indusium, which opens 

 along the anterior margin as the spore-cases grow towards 

 maturity. 



The chief variation to which this Tern appears subject is 

 that of the elongation of its parts. Sometimes the pinnae are 

 much elongated, tapering to a narrow point; sometimes, 

 besides being narrowed, they are auricled at the base, and 

 deeply lobed. 



This species, with the Lanceolate Spleenwort and the 

 Maiden-hair, are exceedingly well adapted for Wardian cases 

 in warm sitting-rooms. All of them enjoy the warmth ; and 

 being all evergreens of moderate size, and very elegant in 

 structure, they supply just what is wanted in such situations. 

 They should be planted on elevated rock-work, in sandy 

 peat-soil, lying in the interstices between the fragments of 

 stone ; and when once established will grow freely, provided 

 they are not much exposed to the sun, which they do not 

 like. 



