SCOLOPENDRIUM. 
161 
all over Europe. The varieties are rare in a wild state, 
and are better known as cultivated plants; they admit of 
propagation, and are mostly permanent. 
Being an evergreen, and a plant of free growth, the 
Hartstongue is one of the most desirable hardy. Ferns 
we possess for open rock work. Its simple fronds contrast 
well with the more compound forms ; and its varieties all 
have a different aspect, combined with the same good quali¬ 
ties of hardiness and endurance. Shady and rather humid 
places are those in which this plant most delights, although, 
as is evident from its sometimes growing on walls, it will 
live in more exposed and arid situations. The plants, 
however, never acquire much vigour under such circum¬ 
stances, and have mostly a starved and stunted aspect. 
They are not particular as to soil, sandy loam, containing 
fibrous or half-decayed vegetable matter, or the damp 
surface of some porous stone, is much preferable to soil 
which is much spent and comminuted; as indeed is the 
case with respect to all Ferns. 
The Hartstongue is sometimes called Scolopendrium 
officinarum , and has been named Scolopendrium PJiyl- 
litidis, Asplenium Scolopendrium, or PJiyllitis Scolo - 
pendrium. 
M 
