ACT IN I OPTER IS

(from aktin, a ray, and pteris, a fern; the fronds are radiately cut into narrow segments). O RD. Filices. Sori linear-elongated, sub-marginal; involucres (= indusia) the same shape as the sorus, folded over it, placed one on each side of the narrow segments of the frond, opening towards the midrib. A small genus of beautiful and distinct stove ferns. They thrive in a compost of equal parts crocks and charcoal, about the size of peas, which must be mixed with silver sand and a very small portion of loam and peat. About half the pot should be filled with crocks, perfect drainage being nece ary. A moist atmosphere is also e ential, and the plants may be syringed two or three times a day. A mean summer temperature of 78deg. to 80deg., with a night one of not le than 65deg., is desirable. In winter, a mean temperature of about 73deg., and a night one of not le than 60deg., should be maintained.