PTERIS 85 



variegated variety P. cretica albo-lineata is an old favourite, 

 and of this we have some pretty crested varieties, the 

 best of which is Alexandra, but Mayi is still extensively 

 grown. P. Victoria is a pretty variegated form, and of 

 this there are several variations, of which Regime and 

 Regina cristata are among the best. 



It is hardly necessary to refer to P. tremula as it is 

 so well known. There are several varieties, including 

 Smithi, a well crested form, and fiaccida, which has 

 narrow pinnules with a bright surface. 



P. argyrea is one of the prettiest of the larger growing 

 variegated Ferns. 



P. longifolia and the variety Mariesi are useful. 



All of the above are suitable for growing in a moderate 

 temperature, and may be potted in a loamy compost to 

 which a liberal addition of manure may be added. And 

 liquid manure may also be used freely after the pots are 

 filled with roots. 



The choicer sorts, such as P. tricolor, P. aspericaulis, 

 P. nemoralis variegata and others, may be given more 

 warmth, and do better in a compost consisting of fibrous 

 loam, leaf-mould, with a liberal addition of sand and 

 some manure from a hot bed or other stable manure that 

 has been well dried. 



Of the sub-genera Doryopteris is the most important ; 

 D. palmata is a useful Fern for decorations, but nobilis, 

 Duvali, sagitata and others are only suitable for choice 

 collections, and require similar treatment to that 

 recommended for tricolor, etc. 



Of the Litobrochias, vespertilionis is the most useful, and 

 if potted in good rich soil will make large fronds of a 

 soft glaucous green. It has spreading rhizomes and 

 requires plenty of pot room. The beautiful little Pteris 

 scaberula may be mentioned ; this requires very care- 

 ful treatment, especially when dividing or repotting. 

 Good loam should be used, and plenty of drainage. 



