29 
torn frequently at the summit. The covers 
of the clusters of spores are without stalked 
glands, but jagged at their edges with a few 
globular ones, that are quite stalkless. The 
buds of the fronds before they unfold, are 
regularly rolled together, (circinate) and do 
not assume the appearance of the preceding 
species. The lobes of the leaflets are ser- 
rated and end in a spine. The stalk is 
generally dark purple, very stiff and woody, 
with the transparent scales more closely adhering to it. The 
plant has a very elegant appearance, sprinkled over with 
minute glands, which, when pressed, and when any part 
begins to decay, emit the scent of hay. It seems to require 
elbow room. Hence we find it where the coppice is not very 
thickly matted together. It is also a perfect Jish, and loves 
to locate itself where the water trickles down copiously. 
This Eern is decidedly an evergreen, of compact growth, 
of a grass-green colour, and appears to great advantage in a 
garden and a greenhouse. In Hewman’s work there is this 
description given by Mr. Ogilvy ol* Dublin, “ This is in my 
opinion the most beautiful of our robust Ferns. In style 
of growth, and elegance of form, it is most striking. It 
presents two tiers of fronds, if I may so describe them, the 
lower more pendulous, the upper more erect, and it is on 
the more erect fronds that the fructification is most perfectly 
developed. The dark purple stem contrasting with the light 
green and crisped appearance of the pinnae, gives a peculiarly 
elegant appearance to the plant. It likes the seclusion of 
trees, and places where it is not pressed by other vegetation.” 
This species is of a hardy nature, and if supplied with 
sufficient moisture and shade, will not require much trouble 
in cultivation. It should be in a loose soil without any ad- 
mixture of clay or marl. If in a pot, it would be of service 
to lay at the bottom the bog moss (Sphagnum) and pebbles, 
and above, black bog, or peat, or sand. When regularly 
watered, the plant will thrive, and the liquid will not stag- 
nate, but percolate through the moss and pebbles. It will 
also flourish in a rockery of sandstone. 
The old Herbalists and Hay do not seem to have noticed 
the distinctions of the three species, the dark-scaled, the 
