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Ferns 

Beech Fern, Broad (Phegopteris hexagonopetra). Strik- 
ing feature is the breadth of the triangular frond, 4 to 
6 inches, especially attractive in quantity. New plant- 
ings develop the massed effect by extensive branching 
and creeping of the wiry roots, just beneath the sur- 
face. This fern likes deep shade, with dry, neutral soil. 
25c each; $2.50 for 12. 
Bracken (Pteridium latiusculum). The soft-green frond 
spreads, hand-like, at the top of a-stout stalk, 1 to 3 
feet high. Grows luxuriantly, sending up the showy 
fronds all summer. Found in thickets, on hillsides, in 
moderately acid soil; also in sterile, sandy, dry soil, in 
shade or sunlight. Roots are deep and wide creeping, 
about the size of a pencil, with tough cord and brittle 
casing. The root starch appeals to swine, whence a 
popular name, “Hog Brake.” The plant has provided 
many human uses, too, such as thatch, stable bedding, 
and material for packing and basket weaving. Young 
fronds and roasted rootstalk have been eaten and the 
starch has been extracted. “Burning the Bracken” was 
an English custom to bring rain and drive witches away. 
35c each; $3.50 for 12. 
Brittle Fern (Cystopteris fragilis). A small but prolific 
fern, producing fronds all summer. Fronds are 4 to 12 
inches long. It owes its name to the brittleness of its 
main stems. Rootstalk has many rootlets, which creep 
into crevices, delighting in a shaded rockery. Should 
be planted with the crown just even with the surface. 
It is satisfied with average summer rain, tends to shrivel 
in drouth, but recovers with new fronds when it gets 
another drink. Best soil condition is called circum- 
neutral. The earliest fern of all, coming up with the 
spring flowers. The fresh fronds are slender, finely cut, 
and a bright emerald green. 25c each; $2.50 for 12. 
Christmas Fern (Polystichum acrostichoides). Shining, 
dark green fronds, 5 to 20 inches long, with ladder- 
like pinne, or leaflets. The pinne are half-dagger- 
shaped, with a spur on one side near the stem. It is 
called “Dagger Fern” by the florist trade. It is so popu- 
lar for Christmas and cut-flower use that extermination 
is threatened. Favors rocky woods, deep soil, ample 
shade and good watering. Crowns should be planted 
even with the surface of the ground. 35c each; $3.50 
for 12. 
Common Woodfern; Evergreen Lace Fern (Thelypteris 
- intermedia). This is the “Fancy Fern” of the florist 
trade. It is valued for the keeping qualities of its ever- 
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