180 X. SCOU5PKNDR1UM. 
of the fronds, not all, have the base hastate. This, 
which has been called scrratum, is, probably, the usual 
form, as the broader and more lobate form was raised from 
its spores, and the plants have reverted to it. Both were 
cultivated at Kew, the plants having been received from 
Mr. Young, of Taunton. 
The Hart's Tongue is one of our commonest native 
species, being almost universally distributed, occurring 
very abundant in Ireland, less abundantly in Scotland. It 
occurs on walls and ruins, on hedge-banks, among thick 
bushes, and in the interior of wells, in the latter situation 
acquiring extraordinary vigour. It is found all over 
Europe and in Asia. The varieties, though mostly originally 
found in a wild state, are not now often met with, and are 
chiefly known as cultivated plants. 
The medicinal virtues for which the species was formerly 
in repute, are now disregarded. It was said to be used, 
boiled in red wine, as an astringent in cases of diarrhoaa 
and haemorrhage, and to form an ointment for the healing 
of wounds and ulcers. According to Lightfoot, it was in 
lu's day used by the Scotch rustics in the form of an oint- 
ment as a vulnerary, for burns and scalds. 
It is a very distinct looking fern, and highly ornamental 
on rock work, from which neither the species nor its va- 
rieties should be absent Indeed, the great variety it 
affords, and its evergreen habit, render it one of the most 
valuable of all ferns for the hardy fernery. It is, more- 
over, a very free growing plant, thriving in any situation, 
though acquiring its greatest perfection in shady humid 
places. As a pot plant it requires considerable scope for 
its roots. It is increased by dividing its crowns. 
