THE BRISTLE FERN. 
297 
when the delicate, pellucid, filmy texture of the 
fronds of this beautiful species is remembered, 
why it is that it cannot exist except in an 
atmosphere which is perpetually charged with 
moisture. 
The Bristle Fern can only be grown under a 
covering of glass; but it may thus be cultivated 
with great success, if due care be taken to imitate 
as nearly as possible the conditions which are 
natural to it. Peat, leaf-mould, and silver-sand, 
with pieces of freestone, should compose the soil. 
The plant should be placed between the pieces of 
stone, and the pot or case in which it is contained 
must be kept constantly covered with a glass shade 
or frame, so as to retain the utmost possible amount 
of moisture. Under such conditions it will grow 
luxuriantly; and it is well worthy of care, for it is 
a plant of great rarity and of exquisite delicacy. 
T 
