42 



THE BOOK OF CHOICE FERNS. 



several rounded divisions • occasionally the blade forks and each division is 

 crested. The second or anterior pair of leaflets are shorter, almost stalkless, 

 without basal lobes, and with the divisions at their extremity less divided. 

 The terminal leaflet more or less resembles those of the lowest pair. The 

 compact, dwarf habit of the plant, the distinct cristation of the leaflets, and 



Fig. 15. Osmunda regalis palustris 

 (i nat. size). 



the peculiar soft colour of the fronds, which makes a pleasing contrast to every 

 other Fern, combine to give this Osmunda a unique character. Its fertile 

 fronds, which are generally quite distinct from the barren ones, are produced 

 very sparingly and of short duration. This variety reproduces itself true from 

 spores ; although usually deciduous, it retains its foliage all the year when 

 kept in a warm greenhouse.— Nicholson, Dictionary of Gardening, ii., p. 530. 



