24 



THE BOOK OF CHOICE FERNS. 



kinds, such as the very pretty little A. (Ehipidopteris) peltatum, and its 

 delicately -divided variety gracittimwm, scarcely 3in. high, classed with such 

 robust species as A. aureum, A. scandens, and others. These pretty dwarf 

 representatives of a genus particularly known through its most vigorous- 

 growing members, as well as the above-named Davallias, are not by any 

 means difficult to cultivate ; but they appear to entertain the greatest dislike 

 towards spacious and lofty structures, and to allow for their welfare it is 

 almost indispensable to provide for them accommodation under a bell glass 

 or in a case of small dimensions, in which a given amount of uniform 

 moisture may be constantly maintained. 



Lomaria, Pteris, Polypodium, Neplirodium, and other equally popular 

 genera, which comprise many very large-growing kinds, are equally noted for 

 their dwarf representatives. The deliciously violet-scented North American 

 Nephrodium fragrans, for instance, is well worthy of a place in every 

 collection, however limited in dimensions this may be ; its tufted habit, 

 showing narrow, lanceolate fronds, seldom exceeding 4in. in length, is ex- 

 tremely pretty: while the equally pretty tropical American N. sanctum, which 

 is now so very seldom met with in collections, is particularly attractive and 

 interesting on account of its dwarf size and its dark, finely-cut fronds, which 

 are disposed in rosettes, and which give the plant quite a unique appearance. 

 Pteris scaberula, a native of New Zealand, is another of these lovely dwarf- 

 growing Ferns, and differs materially in size and habit from most of the 

 other numerous species which form this really popular genus. When the 

 name of Lomaria is mentioned, the mind is naturally carried to such strong- 

 growing plants as the well-known L. cilia ta, L. gibba, L. procera chile?isis, 

 and others ; but it must not be forgotten that the genus also comprises such 

 gems as L. alpina. and also the charming L. Germainii (cre?iulata), from 

 Japan. Both species are evergreen and very hardy, and although of exceed- 

 ingly dwarf habit, measuring but a few inches in height, they are nevertheless 

 found remarkably useful for the decoration of the cool Fernery, where, their 

 foliage being of a very lasting nature, they make a fine display all the year 

 round. 



In the very extensive and most deservedly popular genus Adiantum,, we 

 find, by the side of such tall and robust -growing kinds as A. polypliyllum 

 (cardiochlcena) , A. pulverulentum, A. tenerum, A. trapeziforme, and others, 



