FEKXS. 



OSIIUXDA. 



A geuiis of large handsome ferns, mostly natives of North 

 America, Asia, and Japan, but one is the well-known Roj'al 

 Fern, 0. regalis, of the British Isles. They possess fronds 

 varying in length from one to three feet or more, and when well 

 cultivated form fine specimens for exhibition. Three of the 

 best are 0. cinnamomea, 0. javanica, and 0. palusfrits. They are 

 all moderately hardy, and thrive remarkably well in the green- 

 house. The ordinary fern soil suits them, and as they grow 

 naturally in damp marshy situations, they should be kept 

 moist even when dormant. 



PLATYCEEIUJr. 



A remarkably distinct genus of ferns, containing a few 

 species which, when well grown, possess a unique and hand- 

 some appearance, and form grand specimens for exhibition. 

 Some of the best are P. nlcicorne majus, P. grande, and P. 

 Hilli. These are all tropical species, and require similar 

 treatment to other stove ferns, except that rough material 

 should be used in potting and the plants set high in the pot, 

 which should be well drained. They are better to be kept 

 rather dry at the root during winter. 



POLYPOMUil. 



This is a very extensive genus, widely spread throughout the 

 world, giving a choice of hardy, medium, and tender species. 

 The following are some of the best exhibition kinds: — P. appen- 

 diculatum, P. Krameri, P. loriceum, and P. nigresceiis. The 

 first and last require stove treatment, the other two a green- 

 house temperature. If well cultivated vmder ordinary con- 

 ditions, they readily form good exhibition specimens. 



POLYSTICHUII. 



A very ornamental genus of rather hardy ferns, except a 

 few of the species which require stove heat. The following 

 three are greenhouse species, and suitable for exhibition : — 



