—ioj— 



cula, var. cristata, and it has been interesting to watch 

 the fluctuations in the variations of different seasons, the 

 percentage of crested forms in some seasons greatly 

 exceeding that of others. 



During the past season (1905) the percentage of 

 crested forms has not only been greater than ever before, 

 but the character of the variations has been in every way 

 more striking. Some fronds have not only had the apex 

 of every pinna doubly or trebly crested, but the apex of 

 the frond itself has frequently been bifidly divided with 

 heavily crested apices. Having put in press a goodly 

 number of fronds during the season. I will be glad to 

 send a specimen to any member of the Fern Society not 

 having one, and desiring it, if stamps are sent for postage. 

 This fern is singularly beautiful in the garden and my 

 plants have excited the admiration of all who have seen 

 them. 



Another unique fern, which I have had growing this 

 year for the first time, Nephr odium Thelypteris Puifcrcc 

 (A. A. Eaton) — has shown a marked tendency to revert 

 to the original form. This has been most observable in 

 the fertile fronds, the retention of its varietal peculiari- 

 ties having been strongest in the sterile. 



I do not expect, however, that my plants will become 

 strongly established before another year, when these con- 

 ditions may be reversed. This fern lacks the grace and 

 beauty of the crested Dicksonia. but is more unique and 

 curious. Its characters have been well described by A. 

 A. Eaton, and will probably hold good with similar 

 fluctuations to those of the Dicksonia. 



Med ford, Mass. 



