THE SPLEENWORTS. 
271 
same description, with the exceptions which have 
been pointed out, will apply in the case of both 
ferns : black, tufted root-stocks ; wiry, fibrous roots; 
thin, narrow fronds; brittle stems; and two rows 
of leaflets, — now placed opposite in pairs, and now 
ranged alternately — egg-shaped and saw-edged. 
Both grow from their crowns in dense clusters. 
But, as we have already inferred, Trichomanes 
is found growing in sunnier and more exposed 
situations than Viridi. Trichomanes , neverthe- 
less, though so hardy and bold, best loves deep 
shade and moisture. It never, however, grows 
on the ground, but must be elevated on wall, 
rock, or hedge-bank. 
It is really difficult to imagine anything more 
beautiful than a wall or rock clothed with dense 
tufts of the fronds of Trichomanes , with their 
shining, purplish-black stems and refreshingly 
green leaflets. Peer over the arch of yonder 
bridge, beneath which the stream is surging and 
splashing ! Beyond you, dark woods tower up 
against the horizon ; beneath, the shining river 
reflects in its limpid surface the blue canopy 
