74 BRITISH FERNS 
tenanted by its near relative, the Black Maiden-hair Spleenwort 
(Asp. adiantum nigrum), from which it mainly differs in the nar- 
rower lance-shaped outline of its 
fronds, and the somewhat different 
cutting of its pinne, which are more 
regular in size. It does not lend 
itself easily to cultivation. It partakes 
a little of the tenderness of its constant 
neighbour Asp. marinum, and is far 
more common abroad in warmer 
climates. 
Fig. 32 represents only the tip of 
a frond. It has not been generous 
in varieties, and although several are 
recorded, it is so doubtful that the 
majority of them are still in exist- 
ence that we only mention microdon, 
which is a very fine and distinct 
form, imputed to Asp. marinum by 
Moore, and thought to be a hybrid 
by others, though probably a merely 
Fig. 32. Asp. lanceolatum. plumose “sport” of Asp. lanceolatum. 
(Tip of frond.) Though apparently fertile, the spores 
appear to be aborted. A well-drained 
compost of peat, loam, and sand (2, 2, 1) is essential, coupled with 
a mild temperature. 



ASPLENIUM MARINUM (THE SEA SPLEENWORT) 
(Plate УП) 
This species (Fig. 33) is very distinct from the other Spleenworts 
by reason of the thick, leathery texture of its fronds, as also by 
its strict confinement to the cliffs and caves of our warmer coasts, 
Fig. 33. Asp. marinum. (Part of frond.) 
or to immediately adjacent walls, practically within reach of the 
spray. It is properly a native of warmer climes than ours, as it 
will not stand much frost, and under warm: house treatment, which 

