PROPAGATION. Cuttings, use sharp sand, 65 degrees.
SPECIAL USES. Dish gardens, terrariums.
Polyscias (Aralia) fruticosa Araliaceae
Tropical shrub or tree (eight feet or less) better known in Northern greenhouses for its intricately cut, lacy foliage, and growing so slowly it is nearly permanent (and unquestionably picturesque) in a planter or dish garden. The elegant horticultural variety ‘Elegans’ has leaves cut as fine as a feathery plume. I covet the newly named variety ‘Parsley’ because it is ruffled, to boot, and because its habit is so restrained, and its form so compact and plump.
CARE. Warm, needs fresh air, loamy soil, bright light, moist.
PROPAGATION. Cuttings of firm wood, eye-cuttings (over bottom heat).
SPECIAL USES. Dish gardens.
Polystichum tsus-simense Polypodiaceae
Definitely a dwarf fern, keeping its size moderate in a three-inch pot but not always a subject for terrariums unless they are a larger-than-usual size. It has a tidy habit, always looks clean and refreshing. The small fronds are substantial and taper to a needle-sharp point.
CARE. No sun, cool, humid, loamy soil, moist.