190 BRITISH FERNS. 
this fern; they would occupy more space than can be 
allotted to such a subject. 
- This is the most easy of all ferns to cultivate, 
never refusing to grow freely, if properly treated. 
First, dig up a large sod, where a few mature fronds 
are conspicuous among the grass; take care to have 
it broad enough and deep enough; so that not one of 
the roots of the Moonwort is exposed, much less 
injured: fit this sod in a large pot, a saucer, or even 
a box; place it in the open air, and be sure to add no 
compost or rich vegetable soil. Keep the grass cut 
short with a pair of scissars, and water in dry weather, 
for the purpose of keeping the grass green and 
vigorous. Acting on the belief that Botrychium is 
@ root-parasite, the only requisite is to keep the 
nurse-plant in vigorous health, 
49. ADDER’S TONGUE. Oputocossum yuncaTuM. 
Ophioglossum vulgatum, Linneus. B.F. 325,330. 
The roots and caudex of the Adder’s Tongue much 
resemble those of Moonwort, but the rudimentary 
plant for the next year is exterior to the stem, and 
“not enclosed within it, as in the latter; the caudex 
descends to a certain but not uniform distance, emit- 
ting at right angles. various lateral, stout, succulent 
and brittle roots; the arrangement of these lateral 
