WILSON'S FILMY FERN. 
79 
from other ferns by the matted growth of their thread¬ 
like roots, and their thin membranous appearance. 
This fern is not confined to the neighbourhood of 
Tunbridge Wells, although, being first found there, it 
was named accordingly. It grows in many parts of 
the United Kingdom in mountainous and rocky dis¬ 
tricts ; among moss on the trunks and roots of old 
trees near lakes or rivulets; and in many moist and 
shady places. It is found in many parts of the Conti¬ 
nent; and is everywhere a pleasing variety amidst 
other ferns and wild plants. 
This species, according to Mr. Newman, prefers 
shade, warmth, and shelter; whilst its ally, H. uni- 
laterale , establishes itself on bleak exposed situations. 
It can be grown successfully in the open air by 
imitating its natural condition; and under glass, if 
certain conditions be attended to; viz.—a close atmo¬ 
sphere, shade, moderate warmth, constant but not 
stagnant moisture, and a porous surface. 
WILSON’S FILMY FERN. 
HYMENOPH YLL UM WILSON /,, 
Hooker and Babington. 
(Plate XI. Fig. 3.) 
SYNONYM. 
Hymenophyltum unilaterale , Wildenow, Moore, and Newman. 
This plant is regarded as a distinct species by some 
writers, although it differs so slightly from Hymeno - 
