156 FERNS IN THEIR HOMES AND OURS. 



The genus Selaginella is, of all the Lycopods, 

 most frequently met with in cultivation ; and more 

 frequently, indeed, than all the other Cryptogams, 

 except the ferns. Its graceful habit, and the ease 

 with which its species are grown, at once recom- 

 mend it to every one for the Wardian-case, green- 

 house, or stove. Some Selaginellas will thrive in 

 the air of an ordinary living-room. Even in New 

 England two of the smaller species are indigenous, 

 while in California and the South-western States 

 the number of hardy species is much increased. 

 So important are they among cultivated Crypto- 

 gams, that we shall devote an entire chapter to 

 their consideration. 



