Adhortation

[Lat. adhortatio.] Exhortation. (R.) Adhor'tatory, a. Containing counsel or warning. Adiantum, n. [Gr., dry.] ( Bot. ) A gen. of plants, ord. Filices (ferns); the prettiest of all ferns, on account of the delicate, slender stalks on which the pinnules are balanced in the air. One species, on this account, is called Capillus veneris, and in English Maiden's hair; it is often confounded with the A. pedatum, which is a native of Canada, and abounds in damp, rocky woods.In vain you plunge the adiantum in water, says Pliny; it always remains dry. Syrup of capillaire is properly prepared by adding sugar and orange-flowers to an infusion of maiden's hair. Fig . 32. ADIANTUM. - 5 diam. Pinule with sori covered by indusia.