A Dictionary of Choice Ferns. 
267 
of tliem are rapidly increased, especially the reputed 
barren forms, such, as N , Bufjii (Fig. 107), iV. 
rufescens triyinnatifida , and the fertile but very 
variable N , davallioides furcans, which, when propa- 
gated from spores, produces plants showing their 
crested character in a more or less marked de- 
gree. Where it is desired that these should be in- 
creased, they should be planted in a shallow bed of 
coarsely-broken peat, chopped sphagnum, and silver 
sand, in about equal parts : in this the rhizomes can 
freely run and produce young plants, which may be 
safely severed from the parent when they have de- 
veloped three or four fronds. Besides the usual 
rhizomes already alluded to, a few species, such as 
yV. Bausei, N , cordifolia, N, philippi7iensis , &c., are 
also provided at the roots with small succulent 
tubers, which likewise produce young plants in a 
remarkably short time. 
All the species are well adapted for basket cul- 
ture, being of an elegant drooping character; they 
have also a curious propensity for taking possession 
of the outer surface of the baskets and growing all 
round them, thus making perfect balls of gracefully 
pendulous foliage, which, provided the plants are 
well supplied with water at the roots all the year 
round, remain a long time in perfect condition. On 
account of the jointed nature of their leaflets, the 
fronds are of little use in a cut state, as they only 
last good for a comparatively short time. The 
plants are specially useful for covering walls and 
pillars, as they require but very little soil, and can 
almost be kept thriving on moisture alone. Many 
of them may be propagated from spores, which 
germinate freely. 
N. acuta. 
This very handsome, strong-growing, stove sp-ecies, also 
known in gardens under the names N. hiserrata^ N. ensifolia, 
N. platyotis, N, punctulata, N, splcndeiis, &c., is often 
mistaken for N. exaltata, which it only resembles las far 
as size and general aspect are concerned. It is found in 
Cuba, Guatemala, Peru, Brazil, Polynesia, Hong Kong, 
&c. Its massive arching fronds, 2ft. to 4ft. long and 8in. 
to 12in. broad, are borne on tufted stalks 4in. to Sin. long, 
