THE FERNS

OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.

NATURE-PRINTED.

THE FERN

GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.

BY

THOMAS MOORE, F.L.S.

EDITED BY

JOHN LINDLEY, Pı.D. F.R.S.

NATURE-PRINTED

HENRY BRADBURY.

LONDON:
PUBLISHED BY BRA /ANS, WHITEFRIARS,

PREFACE.

557 VERYONE who has attempted to ascertain the name of a plant by comparing it with
mere descriptions, is aware of the difficulty of effecting the object unless he is moro
? familiar with the technical language of science than those commonly аго who,
although admirers of delicate texture, beautiful colour, or graceful form, do not
bo skilful Botanists. Even with the aid of drawings, investigation of
‚ads to no satisfactory result, in consequence of the inability of art to represent
faithfully tho minute peculiarities by which natural objects aro often best distinguished.
this is so with plants in general it is most especially true of Ferns, the complicated forms and
tender organisation of which baffle the most skilful and patient artist, who can only give at
the best an imperfect sketeh of what he supposes to be their more important features. And
herein lies the great defect of all pictorial representations. ‘The draughtsman can do no more than
delineate a part of what he sees ; and whether he sees correctly what he delineates will at all times be
a matter of doubt, especially where, as in natural history, minute aceuraey is indispensable. But if
minute accuracy is of more vital importance in one than another race of plants, it is most especially во
among Ferns, in the distinctions of which the form of indentations, general outline, the exact manner
in which repeated subdivision is effected, and most especially the distribution of veins scarcely visible
to the naked eye, play the most important part. То express such facts with the necessary accur
art of a Talbot or а Daguerre was insufficient, nor could they be represented pictorially until
Naronr-Parerixe was brought to its present stato of perfection

Attempts were long since made to obtain Botanical portraits by printing from the plants
themselves, flattened and otherwise prepared for the purpose, By this means impressions of leaves
were produced with some success, and even of small branches, Rude as the process was, and imperfect
the result, it was nevertheless found that the figures thus procured were far more characteristic than
any which artists could produce, as was to be expected, indeed, from the absoluto accuracy of the
representations as far as they went, No one who had over seen a Rose-leaf could. fail to recognise its
impression, or was likely to mistake it for that of an Ash-tree ; and the more the impression was
studied, the more did the truth of all its details carry conviction to the mind. The fault of the method.

consisted in its limited application, and its incompleteness.

‘The process of the Imperial Printing Office at Vienna, to which the name of Nature-Printing has
been happily applied, and to which the Work now offered to the public owes its origin, is a great
improvement upon the old method, inasmuch as it represents not only general form with absoluto.
accuracy, but also surface, hairs, veins, and other minuti of superficial structure by which plants are
known irrespective of the hidden details of their internal organisation. Moreover, an exact copy in
copper of the part to be represented being employed by the printer, instead of so fragile an object as
the plant itself, we obtain the means of multiplying copies to the same extent as in copperplate
engraving ; and hence the method becomes suitable for purposes of publication. ‘The Germans have
already availed themselves of the art, and with eonsiderable success, Von Heufler has published
а specimen of the Cryptogamous plants of the Valley of Arpasch,* some of the figures in which are.
admirable representations of nature ; and other works aro announced as having made their appearance,

or being in preparation, in the Austrian dominions.

PREFACE,

It is in emulation of such continental efforts that the present Work has been prepared, with the
view of showing by unmistakeable evidence what differences really exist among the Forms which grow
wild in Great Britain and Ireland. These beautiful plants have of late years attracted so much atten:
tion, and are now во universally cultivated, that it has become most desirable to establish upon solid
grounds the true value of their characteristic marks—a result which it is hopeless to expect from mere
descriptions or imperfect engravings. It is true that Nature-Printing has its defects as well as its
advantages : it can only represent what lies upon the surface, and not the whole even of that, But, on
the other hand, its accuracy is perfect as far as it goes; and in the caso of British Ferns it goes far
‘enough for all practical purposes. If it fails to represent the forms of sori, theew, or indusia, we must never
forget that such organs aro not practically employed in the first-sight recognition of a Fern, although they
are subjects of inquiry in the cabinet, The practised eye knows at a glance that a Fern is Adiantum
Capillus Veneris not by looking to the underside of its leaves, and ascertaining the form of its indusium
or annulus, and the place occupied by the sori, but by its general manner of growth, the ramification of
its stipes, and the form of its leaflets, all which Nature-Printing does show with unerring truth
‘The minute structures to which Botanists trust for the distinetion of genera, and to which Nature
Printing cannot be applied, are suficiontIy pointed out by description alone, and, among the subjects of
the present Work at least, are in no need of delineation, It is not, indeed, too much to say that in
many other plants besides Ferns a knowledge of the inconspieuous parts of

dispensed with if it were possible accurately to represent by figures, or to describe by words, the real
forms and condition of the larger organs But, when compared with the result of Nature-Printi
Botanical drawings are often little more than indifferent diagrams. Tt is related of the late John Gough
of Kendal, that, having become totally blind from small-pox when two years old, he so cultivated his
other senses as to recognise by touch, smell, or taste, almost every plant within twenty miles of his
native place, It is believed that good Nature-Printing will convey to the eye the same class of positive
impressions as those which were conveyed to the mind of Gough by other organs.

‘The text of the York у отав Moore, whose little Handbook of British
Ferns is generally admitted to be our best book on the subject, To a perfect acquaintance with this
part of our native Flora, Mr. Moore has shown that ho adds correct views of nomenclature, and knows
how to avoid those errors of judgment which have induced inexperienced authors to convert the
terminology of Ferns into a systematic chaos. This is not the place to discuss the soundness of the
principles upon which the modern genera of Ferns have been proposed. It may be, however, conceded
that the distribution of veins, and tho position of sori with respect to them, aro characters of equal
importance with the form, or absence or presence of an indusium, or the direction in which it separates,
from the epidermis, or the other peculiarities on which the founders of Pteridology once exclusively relied.
But in the application of any such characters to the distinction of genera, something more is required

mere perception of facts ; itis no less necessary that the Botanist should possess a power of
combining and generalising, as well as of observing, and that he should consult his judgment as well as
his eyesight, When this is neglected the value of characters is misunderstood, every species becomes a.
genus, and natural history is resolved into its elements ; isolated unconnected facts take the place of
skilful combinations, and what should be the perfection of arrangement becomes a farrago of desultory
opinions. It is believed that the present Work will be free from faults of this kind, and that the Author,
while he avails himself of all cireumstanees which can assist in the distinction of what requires to be
distinguished, will continue to preserve the nomenclature of our Ferns upon a rational and solid basis.

‘The duty of the writer of these remarks extends litle beyond a general supervision of the Work as
it passes through the press. The labour and honour of this the first English attempt at applying
Nature-Printing to Botanical Science rest with Mr, Henry Bradbury, under whose direction the plates

аге prepared, and Mr. Thomas Moore, who selects the specimens to be figured, and is responsible for the

letter-press

JOHN LINDLEY

AUTHOR'S PREFACE.

HE peculiarities of the process by which the Illustrations to the Ferns of Great Britain
and Ireland have been produced, being adverted to in another page, it is unnecessary
here to allude to them, further than to point out the fidelity with which the outline
of the specimens is reproduced; and also how admirably the peculiarities of the
vascular structure—which is of real importance in the classification of this family
—are represented by Nature-printing. The process itself has been described by

Mr. Henry Bradbury in a lecture delivered before the Royal Institution.

There is, however, one feature of the accompanying text, on which some explanation may be
desirable, in order that its object and intention may not be misapprehended. Tt has been attempted to
record, and to give some account of the multitudinous variations of the comparatively few species of
Ferns inhabiting these islands, which, even in so limited a geographical area as that of Great Britain
and Ireland, have been met with by diligent explorers within the very few years which have elapsed
since the love of Ferns has become so widely diffused as it now is, It will be apparent, from th
subordinate position assigned to them, that no botanical importance is claimed for most of the forms
thus enumerated ; but the object of recording them has been two-fold

In the first place they have been specially noticed for the purpose of affording aid to those Fern.
admirers, including not a few of the gentler sex and of high estate, who derive such agreeable recreation

that afforded by Natural History studies, in scdking and finding, in collecting, and in cultivatin
the species of Ferns, prolife of varied forms, and which for the most part have to be sought amidst
enchanting rural scenery, where both mind and body derive benefit from the pursuit, Such
students of Nature have a right to whatever assistance they may draw from records like the present
and it is for their special behoof that the varieties we have had occasion to notice have been mentioned
under distinctive names,

We believe, however, that the long series of variations enumerated, have a botanical significance
and it is this, in the second place, which has led us to notice them with some particularity. They are
not indeed, in many instances, objects which the general botanist ean attempt to keep separate under

inet names even as varieties those only which are most prominently placod having this importance
claimed for them. But they are undoubtedly links in the chain of evidence which may direct him to the
conclusion that species have a wider rango of form, even within narrow geographical limits, than many
botanists are willing to admit. They may also teach him that the variations of different

admitted specific rank, often servo to connect the individuals into a series so extended, that species

themselves thus become things of doubtful import, and of uncertain limit. "his lesson, again surely

leads to the conclusion that species are moro groups of individuals associated by the Naturalist for his
own convenience and that of others, just as genera are groups of the so-called species collected together
with the same end in view. ‘The fact that such closely allied series of forms which would ordinarily
xrible to several species admitted to be distinct hut which for this very reason cannot be

lutely defined, and the total failure of all attempts to explain practically what a species is, point
forcibly, if not irresistibly, to the conclusion that Nature ces only individuals, and that

a species is a thing of man's contrivance, and hence has only an artificial value

Apart from this conside another obtrudes itself, Admitting the existence of species, whether

AUTHORS PREFACE,
natural or artificial in character ; then, if in а small area like th itain, во many varietic
often marked, and usually constant in character occur, the variat much more
numerous and marked, if the species is spread, as often happens, over widely separated aud extensive
‚tions of the globe, It may safely be concluded from this further view of at an infinity
of species, founded on slight differences and often on the mere fact of geographical separation, are thus
thrown open to doubt, or at once reduced to mere local variations, Many apparently genuine species
also, thus becom n down and amalgamated by the discovery of connecting varieties, it may be, at
their antipodes, The number of apparently good species so-called which thus become disturbed by the
oceurrence of intermediates in distant latitudes, and under varied climatal conditions, by which means
tolerably exact definitions become unattainable ; and the impossibility of believing in such an excessive
natural diffusion and variation of specific vegetable types from any intelligible centre of ereation,
which in that ease would bo a necessary assumption—and all such conjectures as to origin are mere
assumptions and an affectation of being wise above that which is written,—become a serious obstacle
in the way of continuing to hold faith in the very existence of species, except when viewed in the
light already indicated, namely, as artificial collective groups of individuals associated for convenience
One object of enumerating the varietios of British Ferns then, has heen to provo, that so-called
species do vary very much in our limited area ; and hence to draw the inference, sufficiently supported.
indeed by facts, that they vary much more when a wider rango is taken into account; such a conclusion

being clearly unfavourable to the multiplication of species. It is to bo remembered that the variations

here spoken of, though sometimes slight, are nevertheless often marked, and for the most part constant

and appreciable; by no means frequently ranging as mere monstrosities, but even then for the most
part permanent, and renewable from the spores—this latter fact probably affording incidental proof that
spores themselves are in reality buds, and not at all analogous to seeds, and suggesting that the sori

may after all have nothing to do with fruetification in the usual sen

Tt ошу remains here to acknowledge the much assistance which has been afforded us in the
progress of our labours; all of which it is hoped has been duly recorded. Our thanks are however
especially due to Sir W. J. Hooker, for the facilities afforded by ready aecess to his valuable Herbarium
in tracing the geographical range of the species; to Dr. Lindley, for his careful supervision ; and to

Mr. б. В. Wollaston, for his valuable notes on varieties,

SYNOPTICAL

POLYPODIACEJE.—Ferns wit

Porxroprez. b

Asriox.—Do

BLECHNEE—Dorsal

Реша ри

TABLE OF THE PLATES.

ate vernation ; their spore-cases girt with a jointed
sting by an irregular fis

SYNOPTICAL TABLE: PLATES,

Woooste

OSMUNDACEJE.—Forns with circinate vernation

their spore-eases without a jointed

OPHIOGLOSSACEJE.—Ferns with plicato vernation ; their spore-cases without a jointed
ring, two-valved.

|

D7
Plate

ср ‘of
pr >
E

cj‏ ص
a‏

¡> =

Polypodium vulgare semilacerum В. P vulgare serratum

SES
QS

Т/І»

«<<
KES
GD 77

A. Polypodium vulgare cambricum B. P. vulgare crenatuim .

THE COMMON

Prares I. II. Ш.

POLYPODY (Рогуровшм vur

POLYPODIUM, Linneus.

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, without covers, growing fro

nearly so.

Veins disunited at their extremities, their bı

Р, voroanz:
lobes

fronds deeply pinnati

linear

Var. sewmacenvx; fr
distinct, linear, acute,

Нва and fertile

above, bipinnatifid below; lobules

Var. CAMBRICOX,
Iincar-Innecolat

fronds barren, bipinnatitid throu,

lobules crowded, linear or

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

тыт ИА, Porrroniex ve

eri A, f

zar о,

THE COMMON POLYPODY.

Rhizome creeping, tortuous, branched, as thick as а swan's quill or one's little finger, densely
clothed with ferruginous scales on a deciduous cuticle, and bearing fibres on the under side, Seales
lanceolate, very much acuminated, crowded, at length deciduous, leaving the surface of the rhizome
smooth and greenish. Fibres brown, tomentose, densely matted over the surfaco to which the
rhizome is fixed.

Stipes variable, often nearly or quite as long as the frond, sometimes much shorter, as well as the
rachis slightly grooved in front, naked, at the base articulated with the rhizome.

Vernation circinate

Frond from two to eighteen inches long, lateral to the rhizome, subcoriaceous, of a somewhat sombre.
green, paler beneath ; varying in outline from triangular-ovate when small, to ovate-oblong and linear-
oblong, the latter being the fully developed condition of the species in its normal state; very deeply
pinnatifid, usually more or less drooping. Lobes or segments linear-oblong, parallel, flat, bluntish or
abruptly acute, obscurely serrate, more distant and sometimes deflexed, rarely shorter at the base, shorter
and more erowded or confluent near the apex, which sometimes terminates abruptly, but is usually

late,

Venation in each lobe consisting of a prominent tortuous midvein, which is alternately branched
the branches (reins) are again branched, producing from three to five alternate branchlets (venue), of
which the lowest anterior ono (rarely more) bears a sorus at its club-shaped apex; the others are sterile
and each terminates within the margin in а small transparent elub-shaped head.

Fructification on the back of the frond, usually confined to its upper part, the sorus originating at the
apex of the veinlet ; at first a naked depressed searcely visible spot, and from the earliest period at.
which it becomes visible quite destitute of any membranous cover, or indusium. Sori or clusters of
spore-cases cireular, rarely somewhat oblong, quito exposed, arranged in a linear series on each side the
midyein ; at first distinct, often crowded and finally confluent, ¡Spore-cases yellow or orange of various
hades, becoming tawny, numerous, globose, with a slender stalk of elongated cells. Spores yellow,
muriculate or corrugate, oblong or kidnoy-shaped.

Duration, The rhizome is perennial, The fronds are produced about the end of May, and are
persistent through the winter and until after new fronds are produced, so that the plant is evergreen
unless the fronds aro destroyed or damaged by severe frost. Other fronds are produced

‘This common plant is the type of the Linnean genus Polypodium, ‘There are certainly no grounds
other than the fancies of namo-makers by reason of which that genus should be abolished, although
there may be reasons for its reduction by divesting it of ill-assorted species, We cannot therefore
concur with those writers who, adopting the name used for sectional distinction by Blume and Pres),
would call this plant Ctenopteris vulgaris, and thus altogether ignore Linnauss Polypodium. What
ever additional names the introduction of modern systems of classification may render necessary, it is
clearly not permissible that the names of type species of bond Jide established genera, where these can

be recognised, as in this ease, should be wantonly remodelled. Those who are easily led either to make

or to adopt changes of this nature, should remember that names are not the ultimate objects of

botanical investigation

‘The Common Polypody diffors essentially from all the other British Polypodies, in the character of
having its fronds articulated with the rhizome—that is, attached in such a manner that they separate
spontaneously as they approach decay. Its texture, too, is stouter and firmer than that of the native
species which are allied to it by their fructfication. In its normal form, it is, moreover, less divided than.
they. The small specimens produced on walls, and in other dry exposed places, are erect and rigid;
but in situations where it grows with more vigour, the plant becomes drooping and picturesque in

THE COMMON POLYPODY

This Forn is easily cultivated, if light porous soil is used, and the rhizomes are kept on the surface of
the soil. When unnaturally planted deeply, or in sti retentive вой, it dwindles and often eventually
perishes. Mr. Newman, apparently founding his opinion on the circumstance of its being frequently
mets owing on pollard trees, considers it to be of parasitical habit. "his circumstance would,
however, give it only an opiphytal not a parasitic character; but as it is frequently found, fully as
Vigorous, growing among porous earth and on sandstone, these are all probably mere accidental
conditions, the essential ones being constant moisture more or less in quantity, perfect drainage, and
moderate shade, It even exists in health naturally with little or none of some of these conditions about

it, as many an old wall bears evidence, It increases readily by dividing the branching rhizom

There are in this species many deviations from the typical form which has been already described
but they are rather of importance to the horticultural enthusiast than to the botanist : except in so far
аз the latter may regard them as evidences of the manner in which, and the extent to which, common
species are known to vary ; and may hence learn to appreciate rightly the less familiar differences which
are found to exist amongst exotic species. It is, however, ehielly for the information of the now
numerous class of Fern cultivators, most of whom take an interest in these variations, that they will
be enumerated hereinafter under distinguishing appellations,

That form of the Common Polypody which differs in the least degree, albeit constantly, from the.
normal stato, has the ends of its lobes gradually tapering off to a narrow point, instead of being nearly
‘equal in width to the end, and there more or less blunt, А somewhat more diverse form has the points.
of the lobes acute as in the last, but their margins are at the same timo deeply notched, the notehes
forming a series of coarse double serratures. This stato has sometimes a tendency to bifureation at the
tips of the lobes, and what is more remarkable, the sori are not unusually decidedly oblong, in which
respect it devintes from the generic type. Another slightly varying form has the ends of some or all of
the lobes divided, with the divisions divaricato, so that the lobes become more or less manifestly two.

forked. Occasionally more than two points aro developed to each lobe, and we have thus an indication.

of the nature of the tasselled apices which are common in some other species of Ferns.

Sometimes the fronds acquire breadth rather than length, assuming a broad oblong or ovate-oblong
‘outline; and this is occasionally accompanied by various degrees of marginal division in the primary
lobes, showing a transition towards the more highly developed bipinnatifid varieties, semilacerum and
cambricum, ‘The most simple condition of this abbreviated and widened form, in which the apices are
usually acute and the margins finely serrated, and which is almost or quite identical with the North
American plant called P. virginianum, and nearly so with the Madeira plant called Р. eanariense in
dens, is apparently not common in this country, but has been communicated from near Hereford
Dr. Allchin. 16 is when deeply crenato-lobato, that this type of variation approaches the more highly
developed or compound forms above alluded to ; this, too, sometimes varies with oblon;

‘Tho Trish Polypody—P. voLoane ввмплсквсм (see Prae IL), of which type there appears to bo
some slight variations, and which, moreover, is not confined to Ireland—has the fronds irregularly bipin:
natifid, in this respect approaching the Welsh Polypody ; but the latter is more regularly and univer
sally bipinnatifid, and is, likewise, always barren, whilst the former is more or less fertile. The fronds
are from a foot to a foot and a half long, elongate-ovate, pinnatifd, in the lower part almost pinnate,
‘The primary lobes are narrow and deeply serrate at the base and apex, deeply pinnatifid about the
middle; the secondary lobes or lobules are linear, acute or bluntish, serrate, longest at the lower part of
the frond, becoming shorter upwards, Along these lobules the veins from the principal midvein
extend and become branched, the branches dividing into from two to three venules ; in the other parts,
the veins are arranged similarly to those in luxuriant examples of the normal form. ‘The upper half
of the frond is fertile, and in this fertile portion the lobes aro scarcely subdivided, the uppermost ones

being merely serrate or erenato-serrate ; the development of the lobules, and of the sori, aro co

THE COMMON - POLYPODY

quently not generally coincident on the same parts. It should also be mentioned, that occasionally, and
apparently when the vigour of tho plant has reecived some check, the entire fronds, instead of the upper
portion only, are only erennto-serrate, in which stato it agrees with the variety sinuatum of Mr, Francis,
though not with the one so named by Willdenow. Our plant was found many years since in Ireland,
in woods near the Dargle in the county of Wicklow, and about the lakes of Killarney, where it has also
been lately found in several stations by Dr. Allehin, In somo one of its modifications it has also been
found at Postwich, in Norfolk (110, Hooker) ; at Saltwood Castle, in Kent (70. Gray) ; on the ruins of
Berry Pomeroy Castle, in Devon ; at Tintern Abbey, and Chepstow Castle, in Monmouth (176. Heveard); at
Aberglashlyn, in Carnarvonshiro (Hb. Allchin); and elsewhere. Tt grows, moreover, in Germany; at Cintra
in Portugal ; and we believe the P. australe of Fée, which is met with in Sardinia, Corsica, and Teneriffe
to be a form of this variety. Its most beautifully developed state is that from the Dargle, and the above
description is made from a remarkably fino specimen of that form, communicated by Mrs, Delves.

The Welsh Polypody—P. voran cambmeva—(see Pure TIL) is, like the last, an extremely
gant plant, but it is almost always sterile, The fronds are regularly bipinnatiid throughout ; their
outline ovate or ovate-oblong. ‘The lobes aro erowded, narrow at the base, and acuminate at the apex,
the intervening portion being much widened, and the whole margin, except the very base and apes,
divided into narrow linear or linear-lanceolate, acute or acuminate, serrated, erowded lobules. This
form, which is chiefly known as a garden plant, does not, we believe, ever produce fruetifieation under
cultivation, and it is very rarely indeed that it is produced in the wild plant. Tt has been found at
Montpelier, though originally in Wales—hence the name, Mr. E. J. Lowe has communicated it from a
wood near Macclesfield, in Cheshire, Mr. E, T. Bennett has favoured us with specimens from the
neighbourhood of Ross, in Herefordshire, which aro almost identical in structure with the Welsh plant
and others quite similar, gathered at the same time, are stated by him to be sparingly fructified.

For the following enumeration of the various forms above mentioned, with some other abnormal
ones which are more or less constant, we have to express our thanks to Mr. б. B. Wollaston—whose
name is well known among those familiar with British Ferns as that of one who collects with assiduity

ıo numerous variations which occur among our native species, and cultivates them with remarkable
success, ‘These abnormal forms belong to two types of development: one, in which the narrow elongate
outline of the normal form is more or less preserved ; the other, in which a tendeney to develope breadth
rather than length, results in a frond of broad outline comparatively short, То the first of these groups
belong the varieties numbered. below from 1 to 11 inclusivo; and the remaining numbers, 12 to 17
inclusivo, are referrible to the second :—

Of Polypodium vulgare there ате no less than seventeen varieties sulliciently distinct from each
other to bear different names; but at the same timo, and particularly in a state of cultivation, these
in many instances merge into each other, and connect, by a series of links, the normal with the most

sund form. The constancy of these varieties under cultivation varies considerably according to
the mode of treatment, and depends much upon whether they are kept under glass or in the open air.
The only one, however, that is constant under all circumstances is the variety cambricum. They may
be described 2

1. acutum has the ends of the lobes narrowed gradually to а point, and is without serratures. It
is in its most marked condition not a common, but is a very elegant form, with fronds nearly of the
normal outline; it varies by becoming less tapering, and slightly serrulate, approaching towards the

2. Vifidum has the lobes generally bifid or two-cleft, but sometimes multi ; this occurs mostly

on Ше lower third of the frond, sometimes reaching to two-thirds, and occasionally, but, very rarely
The fronds are otherwise normal. It is not unfrequent.
3. ramosum is a more fully developed form of the foregoing, and із often ramified in the rachis,

which is again divided, and is furnished with lobes also bifid or multifid. Tt is very rare,

THE COMMON POLYPODY.

4. interruptum, аз its name implies, has the lobes interrupted or irregular, sometimes two, three, or
four entirely wanting ; they are also irregularly bifid or multifid, or curiously laciniated; the outlin
of the frond is linear-lanceolate, ¢. e. normal. This variety is rare.

5. sinmatum is а form allied to the last named, but very distinct; the lobes are beautifully

nuous or waved, rarely divided at the apices as in énterruptum, but irregularly lobate, the lobes sharply

‚rate. It is a rare form, and under culture for some years, has proved permanent. "The fronds are of
al outline,

6. laciniatum : in this variety the lobes are of different lengths, and simply but irregularly
notched, and somewhat erispod or reflexed.

7. marginatum : this form of variation is occasional but rare in Polypodium, though frequent in
‘Scolopendrium. Its peculiarity consists in the splitting of the epidermis on the margins of the lobe
“and in its receding, generally on the under side of the frond, towards the midvein ; the lobes themselves,
аго irregularly serrate. Otherwise the fronds are normal

8. serrulatum is a raro variety, having the teeth of the lobos minutely serrate; it has been
generally met with growing on the trunks of trees. The plant is rather dwarf in habit, with fronds
of the normal outline; and has for some years proved constant under cultivation. [It was found in
Devonshire by Mr. Wollaston.]

9. multifdum is generally like the normal form, or the variety serratum, except that the apex o
the frond is bifid or multi.

10, auritwn : the peculiarity of this variety consists in the lobes not being simply decurrent, but
forming a broad wing to the rachis ; and the first lobules next the rachis on the upper margin (not, as
is more usual, the lower,) are greatly enlarged, forming a kind of car, from which it takes its name
‘The outline of the fronds is normal.

11. erratum : the lobes in the most typical stato of this form are sharply and deeply serrate or
even biserrate along their margins, and the apices aro acute. Tt is rather а common form of the species,
with fronds nearly of the usual outline, and with a tendency in the sori to become oblong. It varies
however, with the fronds rather broader, and the teoth rounded and sometimes partially enlarged into
lobes, thus connecting this form with the variety erenatun.

12, denticulatum : this form has fronds less coriaceous than usual, of a broad oblong outline, abrupt
from the uppermost lobes being scarcely shorter, and caudate at the apex ; all the lobes are ascending,
amd distantly sharp-toothed. Tt was found near Hereford. Analogous forms occur in Portugal, and
North America,

13. ovatum : this is allied to tue last mentioned, but the fronds, whieh vary in size, aro ovate rath
than oblong ; they are more coriaceous, with the lobes more obscurely toothed or erenelled ; the lower
most lobes are horizontal, and the upper ones decrease in size. It seems to be common in Madeira.

ıd the Azores; and has been gathered by Dr. Allchin at Ballavaughan, in the west of Ireland.

14. crenatum : this is usually a lange form, approaching semilacerum by its broad or ovate fronds,

ıd often, lobed segments, It varies considerably ; in some instances approaching serratiem ; in other
instances having the lobes moro or less deeply and unequally erenate or erenato-lobate ; and sometimes
having the sori oblong, The notehes of the lobes are rounded, not acute, as in serratum у and the lobes
themselves are in some states of it beautifully waved or undulated. Tt is not common, but is found in
Kent, in Surrey, and in Wales ; the most marked examples being those from Saltwood found by Mr. Gray.

ı1 those from Conway found by Dr. Allchin. The finest undulated form i plant of obscuro
history, but one nearly identical and which will probably become quite во under cultivation was found
by Dr. Allehin at Mueruss, in Ireland.

15, truncatum : this is generally a more compound form, approaching semmitacerum 2 the lobes bein
deeply serrated or and the lobules minutely serrated ; but in some instances, us its name implies,

the development of the frond is, from some unknown cause, arrested, so that it becomes truncate, or cut

THE COMMON POLYPODY.

ort the leafy portion partially wanting, and its place supplied by the midvein, or other minor veins,
Which project and form curious points, The fronds are frequently much less though very irregularly
developed, but the projecting vein or veins seem constant. It was found in Ireland, by Dr. Allchin.

16. semilacerim : this is the most compound of all the fertile forms of this species, and is permanent

under cultivation. The fronds are clongate-ovate, very beautifully and symmetrically divided, the

primary lobes being themselves lobed, and, in somo instances, the lobules again divided or serrated.
It is known generally as the “Darglo’ Fern. Sometimes the fronds come merely serrated, and they
occur in various degrees of development. ‘The namo seems to have been given by Link, in allusion to
the lobed condition of the lower half of the frond.

17. cambricum : this is by far the most beautiful of all known varieties of Polypodium ; it is also
the most compound, under all conditions uniformly darren, and permanent under cultivation, The
primary lobes are crowded, overlapping, and somewhat erisped; they are deeply pinnatiñid, and the
lobules aro again lobed, the lobulets being toothed. "he whole frond is oblong, or ovate-oblong, with
the lower two or three pairs of lobes scarcely smaller than those on the middle portion of the frond,
which gives squareness or angularity to the baso. A detached lobe itself forms a fair miniature of a

frond of the variety атаб.

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Phegopteris

Prarz IV

THE MOUNTAIN POLYPODY, or BEECH FERN
(Рогурортум PHrGoPTERIS).

POLYPODIUM, Linnaeus.

Clusters of Spore-cases eireular, without covers, growing from the back of the veins,
terminal, or nearly so. Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches
(conutes) simple, forked or rarely pinnate

В. Puzoorrznis; fronds ovato-trinngular, acuminate, pinnate below ; pinnie lanceolate,
the lower pair distinct, sessile, usually deflexed, pinnatifid ; lobules linear-oblong,
blunt; upper pinnee confluent.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

‘zome ereoping extensively, branched, tough, slender, about the thickness of a straw, dark-brown,

pilose and slightly sealy while young, the older ns denuded both of scales and hain Seales,
lanceolate, golden-brown, intermixed with other cobwebby hair-like ones. ibrer numerous, much
branched, dark-brown, invested with golden-brown eobwebby deciduous pubescence

Stipes as long as, or more frequently longer, and often much longer than the frond, егесі, brittle
pale-green, furnished near the base with a few lanceolate acuminate pale-brown scales which are soon
deciduous, and on the upper part with a few scattered subulate scales ; the whole length clothed with
minute reversed hairs ; distant and lateral on the rhizome

Vernation eireinate ; the pinnze rolled up separately towards the rachis, which is then rolled from
the point downwards,

Fronds from four to eighteen or twenty inches in length, including the stipes, adherent to the
rhizome, membranaceous, of а dull pale-green, hairy, ovate-triangular, much acuminate, pinnate below

the apex of the frond pinnatifid, Pinnce deeply pinnatifid, Tinear-acuminate, nearly or quito opposite.

THE MOUNTAIN POLYPODY
the lower рг only by their midrib ın the upper

pinnae, w ind broadly attached, and, except o 1

-asionally fluent, so
that the united bases of the opposite pairs form by the direction of their two basal lo cruciform
figure ; all the upper pinna» have their points directed towards the apex of the frond. Zodules oblong
obtuse, entire, or slightly erenato-dentato, directed towards the apex of the риш
Venation of the lobules consisting of a flexuous zuidrein, from which proceed alternate or sometime
site veins ; these veins extend to the margin of the lobule, and are either simple, or become once
forked about half-way their length, tho simple veins, or when divided, the anterior of the vemuls
bearing a sorus at a short distance from the edge of the lobule
m f the frond, seattered almost equally over the whole surface. Sori, or
of з зай, quito destitute of covering, arranged in a series near the margin of
the lobules, and often becoming confluent in lines. Where the fructification is but partially developed,
ошу one or two of the lowermost: veins are fertile, in which ease the marginal series of sori is not very
manifest. Spore-cuses small, numerous, pale-brown, Spores ovate, smo
Duration, ‘The rhizome is perennial, ‘The fronds are annual ; produced about May, and destroyed

by the early frosts of autumn,

‘This Fern is readily known from its congeners by its outline, which is ovate-triangular with an
elongated narrowed point; by the pinnato-pinnatifid mode in which its fronds are divided; by its
hairiness ; and by the direction of its pinnae

‘The fronds in this species become lateral and distant on the underground rhizome, in consequence

of its rapid elongation ; and they are adherent, that is to say, their stipes is not furnished with any

natural point of spontan tion. The character of an underground eaudex seems principally

relied on by Mr. Newman in establishing his genus Gymnocarpium, which consists of the present species,

together with Р, Dryopteris and Р. Rober Mere peculiarities of habit, however, are insufficient.
to mark out generic groups; and cannot be permitted to override the characters afforded by the
organs of fructification. In the present ease, there is in the characters of the fruetifieation so close a
similarity, amounting almost to identity, with those of typical Polypodium, that the separation of these
species is, we think, unwarranted. In fact, the only differential character of any importance, afforded by
the fructification, is that of the medial, not terminal, position of the sori on the veins. M. Fée had
already founded his genus Phegopteris, agreeing with Press section of the same name, mainly on this
character, which however, not being constant, must be held to be insufficient

In cultivation the М

antain Polypody requires an abundant supply of water; and at the same time
in order that this supply may not stagnate about its roots, very perfect drainage should be provided.
This is best done by using broad shallow pots, and filling up about two-thirds of their depth with
coarse rubbly materials, to allow of the percolation of the water, which, moreover, should not be to
continuously kept in feeders about the bottoms of the pots. Ташу peat, with leaf-mould and sand, forms.
1 compost. The plants aro hardy enough to endure cold, but the beauty of the fronds can only
ecured by keeping them, at least during the growing season, in some place of shelter, of which none

1 be more congenial to the plants than a cold frame or its equivalent.

The Mountain Polypody is not liable to much variation. Mr. Wollaston admits only one abnormal
form, more or less permanent, which he calls multfidum. ‘The frond in this abnormal form is of the
usual outline, but frequently some of the pinnee or pinnules are bifid or multifid, and occasionally the
apex of the frond is similarly div It also generally happens that where dichotomous division takes

place, the approximate portions are at the same time depauperal

Polypodium Dryopteris

Prare V

THE SMOOTH THREE-BRANCHED POLYPODY,
or OAK FERN (Роһуроршм Divorrznis).

POLYPODIUM, Linneus

cases cireular, without covers, growing from the back of the veins,
terminal or nearly во. Veins disunited at their extremities, their branch
(conules) simple, forked or rarely pinnate

P. Dayorzenıs; fronds pentangular-deltoid, ternato
pinnate; ріне deeply pinnatif time

EXPLANATION OF THE

Rhizome ercoping extensively, branched, to straw, dark

brown—almost black, the yo stipes, pale semi

transparent brown, lanceolate. k-brown, branched, apparentl conce

Stipes vory much longer than the fronds, frequently bvice or thrive their erect, slender,
brittlo, tinged with purple, and 41 near the base with a few seattered pale-brown lanceolate

deciduous scales, otherwise smo i; lateral on the rhizome, and somewhat distant
з quito smooth ; that of the central bra lateral branches spreading.
nato ; the lateral and lower pair of branches rolled up separately from the remaining.
at the young fronds resemble, as Mr. Newman expresses it, three little balls on
wires at the top of th
Fronds from four to twelve or fourteen inches in height, including the stipes, the leafy portion
averaging four or five inches ; adherent to tho rhizome, delicately membranaceous, bright: green, quite

THE SMOOTH THREE-BRANCHED POLYPODY

branches and those of the two basal pinnules of the lower branches, which latter diver
represent two separate angles. The fronds are ternato, that is, they consist of three nearly equal
branches, as indicated by the vernation, Branches pinnate or subbipinnate, difforing from

each other chiefly in this, that while the upper or central one has its sides nearly equal, the two
lateral ones have the pinna: on their lower side larger, sometimes twice as large as those on the upper
sido, so that they are obliquely triangular, Pinna opposite, variable in outline from ovate to linear-
oblong, acute, usually pinnate at the base, pinnatifid above, and acute as well as nearly entire at the
apex; those of the central branch more decidedly pinnate than those of the lateral ones, Pinnudes
or lobules oblong-obtuse, crenate or erenato-lobate, smaller and less divided towards the apex

Venation of the more compound, that is the erenato-lobate pinnules, consisting of a flexuose mide
with alternate reins, one to each lobe, these veins pinnato-fureately branched, the venules exten
the margin. The veins of the erenate pinnules have fewer branches or venules. Tho first anter
venule bears a sorus some distance below its termination,

Fructification on the back of the frond, and spread over its whole surface. Sori small, circular
consisting of numerous crowded spore-eases quite uneovered, arranged in a linear often erow
along each side of the pinnules near to but distinetly within the margin, the sc
distance below the apex of the venules, Sometimes the fronds are less abundantly fructified, and the
sori appear distant and scattered. Spore-cases small, dark-brown, roundish-obovate, attached by а
slender pedicel. Spores ovate, roundish, or oblong, with a granulated surface,

Duration. Тһе rhizome is perennial. The fronds are annual, produced about April, and in

suecession through the summer, and perishing early in autumn,

‘The nearest affinity of this species is with Р, Lobertianwn, from which some botanists do not think it
to differ. It ean, however, hardly be supposed that those who have seen tolerably good examples of both
would hesitate to admit their distinctness. Р. Dryopteris differs from Р. Rabertianum in having a loosely
spreading habit, while the fronds of the latter are rigid and erect, with stouter stalks and ribs, and a
less membranaceous texture; it differs further in having ternate or three-branched fronds, which is not
strictly the case with the latter, although by a misapplication of terms it is sometimes so described.
D. Dryopteris is decidedly three-branehed, as its vernation, compared to threo little balls on slender

wires, certifies ; whilst in P. Robertianum, as Mr, Newman well states, the three corresponding portions

of the frond never assume this appearance, but, on the contrary, every pinnule is rolled up into a Title

globe, the pinnae rolled in on the rachides, and the entire frond upon its rachis, so that the frond is of the
ordinary bipinnate structure, Of less botanieal importance perhaps, but equally, or still more clearly
available as distinguishing characteristics, are, the perfect smoothness of Р. Dryopteris, compared with
the glandular pubescence of P. Robertianum, most readily seen on the stipes and rachis, but equally
occurring over the whole plant. "These peculiarities, which aro perfectly constant in a state of cultivation,
mark the plants as abundantly distinct

Most writers describe a cruciform figure as being formed by the basal pinnules of the opposite sessile
pinnae in P. Dryopteris ; and it is sometimes figured, as in Mr. Newman's work, in а very marked
manner, Some approach to this arrangement is indeed at times observable, but in numerous suites of

imens we have never seen it in any marked degree; and when it does occur, two of the four
pinnules (the upper pair) are smaller, and nearly parallel, while the lower and larger ones are

This species is a moisture-loving plant, although, as in most other instances, the moisture must not.
be stagnant, Tt is also peculiarly a shadeloving Fern; for, though very hardy, and capable of
existing under considerable exposure, yet the delicate fronds are damaged and disfigured unless both
shade and shelter of some kind is afforded it. It is a good plant for a shady out-door rockery, and also.

grows readily in pots, It increases with facility by division of the rhizome

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"WEN TENG Polypodium Robertianum .

Pıare VI

THE LIMESTONE POLYPODY (Poryropwa Бовкктлхим).

POLYPODIUM, Linnaeus.

+ of Spore-cases circular, without cover ing from the back of the veins,
terminal, or nearly so, Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches
(renules) simple, forked or rarely pinnat

P. Ronzarıanun; fronds erect, rigid, glanduloso, pentangular, deltoid, subternate ; lower
branches (or pinnze) bipinnate, stalked, their pinnulets (or lobulets) oblong obtuse
erenate or nearly entire ; the rest sessile ; stipes glandul

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Rhizome cxecping extensively, branched, thicker than a straw, dark-brown, sealy. Seales pale
brown, semitransparent, lanceolate. йез dark-brown, branched, clothed with a brighter brown
cobwebby pubescence

Stipes longer than the frond, often twice as long, stoutish, succulent when young, becoming stiff
and ereet, abundantly sealy about the base, and with a few scattered deciduous scales upwards when
young, minutely glandular, pale watery-green, dulled by the glandulosity of the surface al to the
rhizome, distinct, adherent, Rachis glandulose, the part forming a stalk to the lower pinna» much
shorter, and distinctly smaller, than that between the first and second pairs of pinnae.

Vernation circinate ; the pinnules rolled up separately into little globules, the pinnae then rolled each
separate inwards towards the main rachis, which is next itself coiled up.

Fronds six to eighteen inches in height, includin pes, which is usually more than half,
sometimes two-thirds at least, of the length ; erect, of a firm herbaceous texture, deep dull grayish.
green, glandulose, deltoidly-pentangular, but with the pentagon less manifest than in P. Dryopteris, in
consequence of the less comparative length of the stalks of the lower pinnas ‘The fronds are not truly

ternate, though the larger size of the lower pinna: gives them a subternate appearance ; they are

THE LIMESTONE POLYPODY

bipinnate, with the lowest pair of pinn sometimes subbipinnate on the posterior side, which is th
most developed.

Pinna variable, opposite below, the lower pair largest, obliquely triangular, stalked, often bipinnate
the next pair stalked or sessile, pinnato-pinnatifid ; the upper ones all sessile, pinnate or pinnatifid,
becoming gradually less divided towards tho apex. Pinnulas of the lower pair larger on the posterior
sido, those of the other pinnze nearly equal, those of each succeeding pair resembling the smaller ones of
the pair next below them. Pinnulets or lobulets oblong obtuse, entire or crenated.

Venation of the lower posterior pinnules consisting of a stout midevin, with a flexuose vein running
up the centre of each lobulet ; this is alternately branched, the rennZes extending to the margin, simple
ог very commonly forked ; the venule if simple, and the anterior evinlet if divided, bearing a sorus near
to the margin. Or, the vein extending up the lobulet may be regarded asa midvein ; its bra
times simple and soriferous, veins, and the branches of these, of which the anterior is fertile, venules.

Fructification on the back of the frond, seattered over its whole surface, Sori small, circular, consisting
‘of numerous crowded spore-cases, entirely without indusia, arranged in a linear submarginal series along
each side of the Iobulets ; or about the sinus, in a series between the midrib and margin, when the lobules
are but slightly developed; often moro or less confluent. Spore-cases pale-brown, roundish-obovate,
small, numerous. Spores ovate, or oblong, muriculato

Duration, "Tho rhizome is perennial. The fronds are annual, the earlier ones growing up about

May, and the latest perishing in autumn

We advisedly retain this species, as well as those represented on Рілтіз IV. and У, in the genus
Polypodium, from a persuasion of the inconvenience and impropriety,—nay the folly —of needlessly
multiplying genera. Characterised among the annulate Ferns by free veins and round naked sori, the
genus Polypodium, thereby relieved of a host of species having reticulated veins, is perfectly
intelligible, and though extensive is not unwieldy. Mr. Newman would separate from it the three
plants above referred to, under the name of Gymnocarpium, which group, so far as any intelligible
characters have been assigned to it, would be distinguished by having a slender black underground
caudex—a feature which is assuredly not of generic value. Prosl had indeed, as we have already
remarked, proposed at a much earlier date a nearly correspondent group as а section of Polypodium ;
and М. Fée had adopted this group under the name of PAegopteris as a genus, in his admirable Genera
Filicum, distinguishing it by a character which would bo of far moro importance than the nature of the
rhizome, if constant, namely, that of having medial sori, ox, in other words, the receptacle of the sori

seated below the apex of the vein. Unfortunately, however, in this very genus, there are species which

produce, at the same time, both medial and terminal sori, so that the character is not distinctive. ‘The

three species referred to possess, however, in common, a peculiarity of some importance, their fronds
being adherent to, not articulated with, the creeping rhizome,

"The chief differences between P. Robertianum and Р. Dryapteris have been already pointed out
under the latter species, The most important of these is tho pinnate rather than ternate mode of
division of its fronds ; and this combined with the distinctive features afforded by its stouter, егесі, and
rigid habit, the glandulosity of its entire surface, and its constancy both in the wild and cultivated
state, leaves no reasonable ground to doubt its permanent distinctness from its near ally

‘This is a hardy-growing plant under cultivation, provided its roots are well drained, and the soil in
which it is planted is kept rather drier than is usual with Ferns, This Intter point may be effeeted, both
by withholding excess of water, and by adding porous material to the compost. Limestone or old mortar
are congenial additions. It bears exposure to sun also better than the majority of Ferns. ‘The creeping

rhizome affords a ready means of propagation,

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Polypodium alpestre .

Ртат ҮП.

THE ALPINE POLYPODY (Рогхроріом ArprsrRE),

POLYPODIUM, Linnaeus.

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, without covers, growing from the back of the veins,
terminal, or nearly so. Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches
(ernules) simple, forked or rarely pinnate

P. ALPEStRE; fronds lanceolate, herbaceous, sub-erect, bipinnato ; pinna» narrow lanceolate
from a broad base, spreading or ascending ; pinnulos ovate-oblong, or subfalcately
ovate-lanccolato, pinnatifid ; segments oblong, bluntish, serrate ; stipes short ;
secondary rachis narrowly winged ; (sori rarely spuriously indusiate).

Талита aceras, М Appendis, 881, xs. Hato ef Drink Fern, 10.
Var. алп fronds slender, flaccid, narrow lanecolate, bipinnate ; pinnae short, os
lanceolate, spreading or deflexed ; pinnules оо or acutish, narrowed.

below, sessile or adnate, distantly lobed or toothed ; stipes very short.

толомун пила, Moore, Hania frein Francis Analy Dr Pera,

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE,

HABITAT Ti plant hs been а ао the United King, found ony

Nos Aes (Ih Hasan

Caudez short, erect or decumbent, consisting of the persistent crowded bases of the fronds

attached around a central axis, the whole forming a stout roundish mass, frequently tufted,

THE ALPINE POLYPODY.

sealy above. Scales numerous, broadly

y or narrowly ovato-lancoolato, pale-brown. Fires stout
branched,

Stipes short, from about one-sixth to one-fourth of the entire length of the frond, stoutish, swollen
near the base, clothed sparingly with ovate-lanceolate pale-brown seales ; terminal and adherent to the
caudex, Rachis stout, rounded behind, channelled in front ; the rachis of the pinnw furnished with a.
very narrow leafy wing on both sides, eonneeting the pinnules.

Vernation circinato,

Frond from one to three feet and upwards in height, erect or ascending, herbaceous, dark dull green,
lanceolate, the base narrowed in about the same degree as the point; bipinnate, or subteipinnate, In
fronds, of which the leafy portion measures about twenty inches in length, the greatest breadth is about
six and а half inches, Pinnce broadly linear or lanceolate from a broad base, tapering to a narrow
point, numerous, crowded above, more distant below, spreading or somewhat ascending. Pónnules
ovate-oblong, sometimes ovato-lanceolate, or oblong-o Ih a narrow attachment at the base
but connected by а narrow membranous wing which borders the rachis ; they are deeply pinnatifid,

nd in the most vigorous fronds so much so, and the segments so far distant from each other, as to
appear again pinnate, Segments oblong obtuse, sharply serrate, especially at the apex and on the
anterior margin, The subtripinnate fronds have the segments doubly toothed.

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a slightly flexuose midvein from which branch a series of
alternate pinnate veins, Verne of the segments also flexuose, with simple alternate venules, one of which
is directed to the point of cach marginal tooth ; the lowest anterior venule, which is directed towards
the lowest anterior tooth, is usually soriferous, and when this only is so, the sori form a series on each
side the midvein, at a short distance from it, and just above tho sinus of the segments on their anterior
margin ; sometimes, however, some of the other venules aro also fertile, and the sori are then placed
near the margin of the segments, In the subtripinnate fronds, which have the segments more or less
doubly toothed, the venules are occasionally forked, the anterior үсішісі, or sometimes both, bearing a
sorus in these examples the sori, three or four on cach side the segment, form tolerably distinet sub-
marginal lines, The sori are in all cases attached near to, but below, the apex of the vein, which
reaches to the margin.

Fructification on the back of the frond, occupying the upper two-thirds of its length. Sort small,
circular, usually distinct, but sometimes crowded, and becoming confluent ; usually naked, but some

times (rarely and in abnormal-looking sori) the spore-cases are somewhat lateral, and a membrane,

Which appears to be an abnormal development of the receptacular expansion of the vein, is produced,

simulating an abortive or spurious indusium, Spore-cases roundish-obovate, brown, numerous. Spores
roundish or oblong, somewhat muriculate
Duration. "Te caudex is perennial. "The fronds are annual, growing up in April or May, and

perishing early in autumn,

"The Fern is at once distinguished among the British Polypodies by its short thick erect tufted
caudex, and by the lanceolate form, and bipinnate or tripinnate mode of division of its fronds. Tt has
certainly a general resemblance to Athyrium Fitie femina, with which it appears to have been very
generally confounded, but the fructification, as usually borne, is very different, and even its resemblance
to that species is not found to bo so elo ht appears to be the ease

The short massive caudex with terminal adherent fronds, would lead those botanists who derive
generic distinctions from the mode of development, to separate the present species from Polypodium,
Tt does in fact represent one of the three new genera in which Mr. Newman has disposed the five
Polypodies which inhabit Great Britain,

The supposed ‘indusia,’ ascribed to this plant, we have noticed both ih living plants of the species,

and in dried specimens of the variety /fezilz, but they are only ocensional, and even rare, and appear

THE ALPINE POLYPODY.

over to occur in company with the more perfect sori, but only where the spore-eases are much fewer іш

number than usual. "To us they had the appearance of lacerated membranaceo-filamentous expansions

of those points of the veins which formed the receptacles ; and they appeared to arise from some abnormal
condition, which had limited the power of producing spore-cases to the side or base of the receptacle,
while on the upper side the cells of the receptacle had been directly prolonged into tho indusioid.
‘membrane ; but in no case have we seen what could be considered as a true indusium, On the other hand,
Mr. Rylands, of Warrington, who regards the plant as an Adhyrtum, has communicated the result of some
‘observations made in 1855, in company with Mr. Wilson, from which the following passages are quoted
—"In those sori which aro large and fully ripe, the indusium could not be seen, though I imagino
dissection would show traces of it, One sorus was found still closed, the spore-cases little developed ;
it was reniform, and lay alongside the venule. In many of the smaller sori remains of an indusium
was seen, and in two or three it was as nearly perfect as one may expect to find it. ‘The margin was
laciniated with fine projecting points, The laciniated margins are produced by the rupture of the
cuticle, and the fine points are the cell-walls thereof, ‘The indusium is very tender, shrivels, and where
the spore-eases are numerous, is speedily concealed or perhaps displaced by them: it is smaller than in
the other forms of Athyrium. ‘These peculiarities seem to result from the rupture of the cuticle taking
place early in the progress of development of the sori ; but that it has the true indusium of an Athyrium
T think cannot be further disputed.” Subsequently, Mr. Rylands writes :—“ The “indusin’ of alpestre
are not, I think, confined to the imperfect sori, though after bursting they soon shrivel and disappear
in the larger ones. I have compared it with A. Filée-famina molle, and though in texture, posi
and general character, there was little difference, I am compelled to admit. that in tho caso of alpe
the spore-cases seemed to lie within the proper cuticle of the frond, while the evidence of а distinct
membrane was much clearer in molle. ‘This supports your view to some extent; but, all things
considered, is it sufficient to remove the plant from others so evidently its allies?” When so many of
the sori—not ошу the majority, but all, with fow exceptions, and those exceptions having strongly
‘marked imperfect or abnormal charactors—really appear to be the round naked masses of Polypodium,
же have no alternative, repudiating as we do the other grounds of separation already adverted to, but.
to retain this plant in that genus.

The Flexile Polypody—P. atrestae rrexua— (Pare VIL, p. £) as communicated to us by Mx
Backhouse, is certainly a very distinct variety, and may be a species, the former being the view adopted
by its only discoverer, Mr. Backhouse, who writes :—“ Dissimilar as it is from P. alpestre, Т shall
continue doubtful of its specific difference if it does not turn up in other places" It diffors in being
more slender and flaccid ; in having a much narrower outline, and consequently shorter pinnse, with a.
considerably reduced number of pinnules; in the form of the pinnules, which are oblong, narrowed below,
sessile or adnate, and distantly toothed ; in tho very short stipes, becoming obsolete in the cultivated.
plants; and in a tendency to bear perfect sori at the base of the frond, while the apex is barren—the
reverso of what usually happens. ‘The absence of stipes, which Mr. Newman includes in his definition
is not constant, the wild specimens sent by Mr. Backhouse having a distinet stipes of about a couple of.
indies; this part, however, is always very short, ‘The fronds are from six or seven to twelve or
eighteen inches in length ; the pinnze, spreading or more or less deflexed, short, with about six or eight
pairs of pinnules, “Тһе sori are few, six or eight on a pinnule, usually distinct, In the eultivated plant
the clusters aro very numerous in the lower half, and scarcely extend upwards beyond the middle of
the frond ; but this character is not constant, one frond communicated by Mr. Clapham, and the wild
fronds from Mr. Backhouse, being fructified throughout, and another obligingly forwarded by Mr

wan being fertile both at the base and apex. In this latter, which was only sparingly fruetiñed,
the spore-cases appeared for the most part to be attached to the side of the vein, and the sori were
slightly elongated. rather than circular, indicating an affinity with Athyrium, and there was in some

‘eases а peculiar membranaceo-flamentous development in the position of an indusium, again indicating.

THE ALPINE POLYPODY

affinity with the ciliated indusia of Athyrium, but at the base and apex of the frond, the moro perfect

sori were without trace of this indusioid growth, and truly polypodioid. It seems to be а difficult
plant to cultivate in the climate of the south of England, languishing, probably, for the pure air and
cool breezes of its northern home

We have seldom seen cultivated plants of this species thriving with the vigour they possess in their
native hills, exeept when grown fully exposed to the air in sheltered shady situations, When eonfined,
they often produce but puny and flaccid fronds. It roots, however, freely in a sandy compost of loam and
ent, and with a free admission of air may be grown in situations where it is necessary to shelter plants
of this nature from atmospheric impurities, In all casos where a pure atmosphere is enjoyed, it will
no doubt be found to grow better on the open rockery, than in pots under glass ; and when, from the
cause just mentioned, it is found requisite to adopt frame or house culture, the plants should be
provided with as airy and light (though shaded) a situation as can be afforded, It may be inereased

by separating the lateral crowns of ‘the caudex.

We learn from those who have visited the native localities of this Polypody, that it is a very
variable plant, but whether the variations are such as would be perpetuated under other conditions than.
those in which they naturally occur, we have as yet no information, ‘The forms wo have received have
а great analogy with those of Athyrium Filéz-fomina ; and the most striking of them are enumerated
as sub-varioties below, with the object of recording, as we have done in the case of other species,
the most marked modifications of development to which this is subject,

1. егде (М). This has been already noticed. It is a lax narrowed form ; and bears perhaps in
its irregular toothing, and singular habits of fructification, some indication of being a monstrous or
abnormal variation, though we believe it is perfectly constant to the peculiarities above assigned to it.
Only found by Mr, Backhouse, but in somo quantity, in Glen Prosen, Clova, Forfarshire

2. lanccum (М). In this the fronds are large, stout, subtripinnate ; the pinnules elongate, ovato-
lanceolate or sometimes sublincar, subfaleate, deeply pinnatifid, with obtuse serrated segments, the
Jowest of which is almost separate, We have received it from Mr. б. Lawson, and Mr, Croall, gathered
‘at the White Waterfalls and elsewhere in the Clova mountains ; Mr, Croall has also communieated the
same form from Lochnagar, Aberdeenshire,

3. tripinnatum (М). Тһе fronds of this form are large, stout, tripinnate ; the pinnules, which aro
from an inch to an inch and a half long, are oblong-ovato, with separate, oblong, secondary pinnules,
‘tho upper of which are united by the wing of the rachis, but the lower are separate to their base. Tt
is analogous to fine states of Athyrium Filiz fomina ineisum. Mx. б. Lawson gathered it at the Wells
of Deo, Aberdeenshire

‘The smaller and more usual—at least the more usually collected —forms of this plant, are analogous
to Athyrium Piliz.famina molle, and the other less divided states of the Lady Fern ; even these, how
cover, exhibit differences in habit, some being quite erect, while others are spreading. We suspect, also,
that а dwar? barren monstrous shy-growing plant found by Dr. Dickie on Ben Маса, and

hitherto referred to A!Ayrium (var. preemorsum), belongs rather to this species,

Mlosorus crispus.

Prare ҮШ.

THE MOUNTAIN PARSLEY FERN, or ROCK BRAKES

(ALLOSORUS CRISPUS).

ALLOSORUS, Bernhardi,

Clusters of Spore-cases round (or elongate oblong), springing from near the apices of
the venules, distinct, at length becoming laterally confluent
simulated by the involute unaltered margins of the pinnules of the contracted
fertile fronds which cover the sori. Veins simple, or forked from а distinct
midvein ; venules disunited at their extremities,

Indusium none,

А. сәнге: fronds of two kinds, ovato-deltoid, bi-tri-pinnate ; ultimate divisions of the

sterile fronds obovate wedge-shaped, often bifid

of the fertile linear-oblong ;
sori roundish,

el Sl m Pat. Rena Ble 1

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE

Caudez. small, short, tufted, erect or decumbent, sealy. Seales membranous, pale brown, subulate.
Fibres numerous, branched, dark brown, wiry, and slightly covered with small hair-like scales

‘Stipes as long as, or usually longer than the frond, pale green, slender, smooth, with a few scattered
scales near the base ; adherent to the caudex. Rachis smo

Vernation cireinate

Frond from four to twelve inches high, including the stipes, herbaceous, of a lively green, terminal
on the caudex, triangular or ovato-triangular in outline, of two forms, and hence described as.

dimorphous, Sterile fronds leafy, usually about as long as the stipes, bi- or tri-pinnato, smooth.

THE MOUNTAIN PARSLEY FERN

inna altornato or sub-opposite, triangular-ovate, spreading, the lower ones largest. Pinnules
alternate, ovate, largest on the lower side of tho pinna; pinnate or pinnatifid, the pinnulets or lobes
ovate or obovato-euneate ; the latter, or smaller ones, eut into linear acute teeth, and the former into

cuncato-linear bifid lobules, having acute incurved teeth. ‘The ultimate divisions are, however, variable

in form, being sometimes oblong-oval, with sinuously shallow-toothed margins, this form of develop:

ment apparently representing fertile fronds, whose fruetiforous growth has become arrested and
abortive. Fertile fronds contracted, usually about one half as long as their stipes, usually tripinnate
or even quadripinnate in the basal portions of the lower рішшь inne alternate or sub-opposite,
ovate, spreading, the lower ones largest. Pinnules alternate, ovate in outline, bipinnate or pinnato-
pinnatifid in the lower pinnw, pinnate only above. АШ the ultimate divisions are stalked, obtu
nd linear-oblong from the involution of the margins, which are pale-coloured, erenated, and indusioid.
Venation of the barren fronds consisting of a slender rein extending along each pinnule, and
casting off a venule into each of its lobes or pinnulets, this again becoming alternately branched, so
that a reindet runs along the contro nearly to tho point of each segment; simple where the segment
is undivided, and forked where it is bifd, a branch of tho vein being directed towards every marginal
tooth. In the fertile fronds a vein enters cach ultimate division, and passes in a sinuous course to its
apex ; this throws off alternate venules, which extend nearly to the margin, and are usually simple,
but sometimes forked, and bear a sorus near to their extremity
Fructification on the back of the frond, and usually occupying the whole under surface. Sori small,
roundish, situated near the extremity of tho venules ; at first distinet though contiguous, ultimately
laterally confluent and forming a continuous line, No indusium is present, but the margins
nulets, somewhat pallid but not altered in texture, are incurved over the вон. Spore-cases
‘Spores smooth, roundish, oblong, or bluntly trian,
Duration, Тһе caudex is perennial; the fronds are annual, springing up in Мау and Juno, and

perishing in the course of the autumn,

‘The Parsley Fern is readily known by its dwarf tufted parsley-like appearance, coupled with the
dissimilarity between its much-divided sterile and fertile fronds, of which the former have the segments
broad, flat, and leaflike, and the latter have them involute at the margin, so that they become contracted
and somewhat pod-like or siliquiform. These features distinguish it from all other of our native Ferns
Few, if any, of the few species which are indigenous to Britain have given rise to such absolutely
conflicting opinions as to the genus to which it belongs. Linneus, and the older botanists, referred it
to Osmunda and Onoclea. Of the other names which have been applied to it—all apparently under
the impression of its being a pteroid Fern—that of Bernhardi claims priority, and we adopt it with some
limitations, Presl, and subsequently Kunze, adopting Bernhard’s name, associate with this species
various true Pleridew with which it has no affinity, and which must consequently be again dissociated,
‘The affinities of our plant have been well pointed out by Mr. John Smith, who considers that it is not
pteroid, but polypodioid. It is, in fact, polypodio-grammitoid. ‘The sori are round or elongated, and
distinet, and the involution of the margin represents not an indusium but a contraction of the frond, the
incurved parts being unaltered in texture, and not membranous, which they would be, if true indus
This Fern is not dificult of culture under conditions which protect its fronds from the sun, and its
roots and caudex from stagnant or accumulated moisture, In free well-drained soil and ina cold shady
frame it grows remarkably well, but should be guarded against damp whilst dormant in winter. It
may be inereased by division, but it is safer not too often to disturb a thriving plant for this purpose,
Recourse being consequently often had to its native haunts for a supply of plants, it may be hinted
that, in the case of this, and other Ferns which naturally occur among rocks, and are consequently.
somewhat difficult to remove and establish, it is far better to select the younger and smaller plants for

the purpose of removal, than the ıd older masses which tempt the collector's hand.

y

25,2
У E
N

Nuhr
Ed М

Polystichum Lonchitis

Pıarz IX.

THE ALPINE SHIELD FERN, or HOLLY FERN
(Porysronuw.| Loxcurris),

POLYSTICHUM, Roth. Schott

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, medial, rarely terminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium, or membranous scale. Zndusium orbieular, peltate, te, attached at
ог near its contro, the margin becoming free. Veins pinnato-fureato ; venules
direct, disunited at their extremities, the lower anterior one in each fascicle, on

the fertile parts of the frond, bearing a sorus.

P. Loncmris: fronds pinnate, narrow linear-Ianeeolate, rigid ; pinnee faleately lanceo-
late, acute, spinosely eilinto-sorrato, the upper ones auricled at the base on the
upper side, obliquely wedge-shaped or rounded on the lower ; the lowest ones
often with both an anterior and posterior auricle

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Caudex thick, slowly elongating, erect or decumbent, consisting of the densely packed bases of
decayed fronds surrounding a central woody axis, and clothed in the upper part with the numerous

scales which remain about the bases of the stipes. Fibres stout, rigid, branched, dark brown.

‘Stipes usually short, from half an inch to two inches, or sometimes in Welsh specimens three inches

in length, clothed with large ovate or broadly-lanceolate reddish-brown pointed сай scales ; terminal
and adherent to the caudex. Ruchis densely sealy, with narrower lanceolate and subulate pallid scales.
Vernation circinate
Frond, from six to eighteen, or rarely twenty-four inches in length, deep g
rigid leathery texture, erect or pendulous according to the conditions of growth, linear-lanecolate,
pinnate, Pinna undivided, numerous, with one of the margins, usually the anterior one, bent back

from the plane of the rachis and usually crowded, so that when the frond is flattened they become

THE ALPINE SHIELD FE

overlapping on the upper part of the frond, though distinct and sometimes distant below, They are
very rigid, and have scattered over their under surface numerous small hair-like scales, They are,
moreover, very shortly stalked or sessile, lanecolate-faleate, from three-quarters of an inch to an inch
and a quarter in length in the widest part, having an acute point, and an acute auricle at the base on
the anterior side, the base on the posterior sido being obliquely sloped or rounded off in all the upper
рїнє, but often produced into a posterior auricle in the lowest ones, The margin is serrated, the
serratures tipped by bristle-like processes, with minute intermediate teeth,

Venation generally indistinet, but often more eonspieuous in specimens from Wales, where the growth
seems more lax. There is a midrein extending to the apex of the pinna, and diverging from it, at the
very point where it enters the pinna, is a principal branch or rein which extends to the apex of the
auricle ; this branch is pinnately-forked on the same plan as the midvein, but on a smaller scale. The
rest of the veins on each sido the midvein are pinnately forked, бо, they are branched, but the branches
are so placed that at each ramification the vein seems to have separated into two nearly equal and but
slightly diverging parts, In average specimens there are three or four of these ramifications to each
vein near the base of the pinna, then two, and finally one in those near the apex. The venues and
бізг aro lost in the substance of the frond just within the margin, one being directed into each
marginal tooth, In smaller specimens the number of ramifications in the veins is fewer

Fructification on the back of the frond, and usually confined to the upper half, though sometimes
extending lover down. Sorî round, indusiate, forming a line on each side the midvein, halfway between
it and the margin, and also in a similar way a line on each side the principal vein extending into the
auricle ; they are of variable size, but often large and crowded, and then generally become confluent in
age; they are attached to the anterior branch of each fasciclo of veins, and aro medial, seated nearer to

its base than its apex, Zndusium, or cover to the spore-cases, membranaceous, orbicular, umbilicate,

2227... I

stalked, deep brown. Spores small, round or oblong, muriculate.
Duration, The caudex is perennial, and the plant evergreen, the fronds, which appear, as is usual,
in spring, attaining their maturity by the autumn, and remaining in full vigour through the winter

This plant may be taken as the type of Polystichum, а genus established by Roth several years prior
to the publication of Aspidium, which has too long and too generally been allowed to supersede it, Tt
is also the type of Polystichum in the restricted sense proposed by Schott, whose views we adopt

It is known from perfectly developed states of the cognate species by its being simply pinnate, but
imperfect and debilitated forms of them which sometimes occur are only pinnate, and from these it is
distinguishable with diffieulty, The rigidity of texture, the strongly spinous margin, and the tendency to
imbrication in the pinna, offer the readiest marks of distinction from these anomalous congeners.

Abnormal forms of this species aro very rare, Mr, Wollaston has communicated notes of tho two
following:

1. multifidum : this has the fronds divided at the apex. It is probably rather to be considered as

ional and accidental variation, than as a true variety in tho usual sense,

2. proliferum : this form produces small bulbils in the axils of the lowermost pinnae, and these
produce young plants when the fronds drop from decay.

The cultivation of P. Lonchitis will be noticed under that of the following species.

A. Polystichum aculeatum.

P.aeuleatum alatum .

n б.

argutum

l''acaleatum

Bí.

€
У»

Polystichum aculeatum — lobatum .

Premes X. XL

THE COMMON PRICKLY SHIELD FERN

(PoLysticHum ACULEATUM).

POLYSTICHUM, Roth. Schott.

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, medial, rarely terminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium or membranous scale. Zndusium orbieular, peltate, 1.0, attached at
ог near its centro, the margin becoming free. Veins pinnato-fureate ; venules
direct, disunited at their extremities, the lower anterior one in each fasciele
оп tho fortilo parts of the frond bearing a sorus.

Р. acozzarox: fronds bipinnate, lanceolate or broad linear-lanccolate, rigid ; pinnules
distinct, and attached by their wedge-shaped base, or obliquely decurrent, or
confluent, the anterior basal ones larger, all prickly serrate ; sori infra-medial

Var. tosarox: fronds narrow-lanecolate, very rigid ; pinnules (except the larger basal
ones) elliptic, not auricled, nearly all decurrent or confluent, prickly-serrate

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

THE COMMON PRICKLY SHIELD FERN.

mi (И, ме D) өлі

Caudex thick, tufted, erect, or decumbent, becoming woody in ago, consisting of the bases of decayed

fronds closely surrounding a woody axis, slowly elongating, in the upper part sealy. Seales broad
ovato-lanceolato, numerous, dark fuscous, Fires long, coarse, tortuous, branched, dark brown.

Stipes short, three to four inches long, densely. sealy with broad ovato-lanceolate chafly fuscous
scales ; terminal and adherent to the enudex,

lach stout, rounded behind, rounded and channelled in front, densely sealy, the scales less
numerous and hair-like above, more numerous and intermixed with broader ones below, gradually
merging in size with those of the stipes,

Vernation circinato, the main rachis becoming recurved before the unfolding of the frond is
completed ; the pinna» convoluto towards the main rachis,

Frond from one to three feet high, and from four to seven inches across, rigid, leathery, smooth and.
dark green above, paler beneath, more or loss spreading, oceasionally somewhat drooping, lanceolate in
the typical form, narrowly-lanceolate in the variety, bipinnato. Pinna numerous, obliquely-lanceolate,
broadest at the baso, acuminate, pinnate at the base and for a part of their length, sometimes nearly to
the apex, in other cases the basal pinnules only being distinct; the upper ones alternate, the lower
ones nearly opposite and diminishing in size. Pinnudes ovato-faleato or elliptic, acute and aristate at the
apex; all or the basal ones only aurieulate on the anterior side, the auricle acute and mucronate ;
aristate, subsessile, and attached by the wedge-shaped base, or decurrent; the basal portion entire,
and when distinct, obliquely incised on the posterior sido, truneato on the sido next the rachis ; the
rest of the margin toothed with unequal adpressed mucronate serratures, ‘The basal anterior pi

ach pinnule is generally larger, often much larger than the rest, and more strongly auricled, and
the pinnules are all more or less convex ; on the under surface are seattored fino hair-like scales. ‘The
typical form has tho pinnules mostly distinct, tho variety has them mostly decurrent ; in some plants,
apparently resulting indifferently from youth and decropitudo, they are obsolete, the pinnae being merely
more or less deeply toothed, somewhat resembling those of Р. Lonchitis ; it is this imperfect condition
of the plant which has been named lonchitidivies.

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a Moxuous midsein, with alternate branches or ecins, which are.
¡gain fureately-branched alternately, the lower veins producing three or four, the upper two or thre
branches or venules, of which the lowest anterior one is soriferous, In the auriculate portion at the
baso, the vein is more prominent than in the upper portion, and gives off a greater number of simple or
forked venules, some few of which on both sides may produce sori

Fructification on the back, and usually confined to the upper half of the frond. Sori, round, indusiate,
seated much below the apices of the venules, in a line on each side of the midvein of the pinmules, and.
also of the vein of the auricles ; often crowded, sometimes becoming confluent ; attached to the lowest
anterior venule of the fasciclo of veins, or, at the auriculate base, to the venules on either side the vein ;
but there also to the anterior branch if they aro forked. Zndusium mombranaceous, orbicular, peltate,
and umbilicato. Spore-cases numerous, dark brown, roundish-obovate, stalked. Spores very slightly

Duration, The caudex is perennial; the fronds are persistent through the winter and the following

summer, though sometimes damaged by severe frosts, The young fronds grow up in May.

THE COMMON PRICKLY SHIELD FERN.

P. aculeatwn is very dificult to distinguish from its near ally P. angulare, and yet viewing th

British forms, they appear to bo distinct. Indeed, were it otherwise, a series varying through every
"dation from pinnate to tripinnate must be united, and all hope of defining a species would be at an end.
While thus admitting the dificulty of discriminating between some forms of these species, and without
resuming to lay down any infallible rule for effecting this object, we may point out how they may with
tolerable certainty be known from each other, presuming that in the application and appreciation of
the distinguishing peculiarities somo general knowledge of the plants is desirable : 1, P. aculoatum is
® Моше more егесі, and altogether more rigid plant than P. angulare, which is normally lax and
herbaceous, equally large or even larger in its size, 2. Р. aculeatum has its pinnules either confluent
Or decurrent, in which casos there is no dificulty whatever in distinguishing it ; or when the pinnules
are distinct, as in the most perfect plants, they are wedge-shaped at the base, tho anterior side being
‘truncate, and the posterior obliquely incised in straight lines, the two lines describing an acute angle by
the apex of which they are attached to the rachis. In P. angudare the truncated anterior base has a
‘more curved outline, and the two lines of the baso describo a right angle or an obtuse angle, at the apex
of which is a distinct slonder petiole, by which they aro attached, 3. P. aculeatum has its sori medial,
that is, attached at a point along the middle part of the venule; it is in fact nearer the base of the
venule, е, the point of fureation, than the apex, which is carried out to the margin of the pinnule. In
P-angulare the fertile venule stops about midway across the pinnulo, and the sorus is commonly placed
at or almost close to its apex. These peculiarities observed in connection with each other will serve
to reduce the dubious forms within very narrow limits indeed, at least, so far as British examples
are concerned. ‘The portion rather below the middle of the frond should bo taken for examination,
‘This is one of the most easily cultivated of all the larger hardy ferns. Tt prefers а loamy soil and
partial shade ; and is increased readily by division. Being evergreen, its varioties are among the most

desirable of our native species for the decoration of shady walks and rockeries, in which latter situation

especially, where the roots are generally well drained, provided the plants are not exposed to the

effects of sovere drought and are moderately shaded, they thrive admirably. It is also very manageable
as a pot plant, and under any circumstances is ornamental in its character. The smaller form, known
as Zobatum, is perhaps the most suitable for pot culture, on account of its size and tho elegance of its
fronds, which not uncommonly assume a very graceful lateral curve,

The allied Р. Lonchitis, though a vigorous looking and hardy plant in its native haunts, is seldom
seen to preserve its vigour under cultivati in the neighbourhood of London, probably on
account of the impossibility of imitating the puro atmosphere of its native mountains. It certainly
prefers a damp atmosphere; and, provided the moisture is not stagnant, its roots too should be
freely supplied ; they should in fact be constantly moist with percolating moisture: and hence the
necessity of a careful mechanical adjustment of the materials employed as compost, of which mellow
loam, gritty sand, and small masses of somo porous body, such as soft sandstone, should Ье the main
ingredients. We have succeeded tolerably well by potting the plants very firmly in such a compost with

small proportion of peat added, the plants being kept under glass in a close cold shaded frame, but
the removal of the plants for the winter to a cold greenhouse where the atmosphere was drier, led to
the partial decay of the fronds. The same plants however on being enclosed within a handgl
where consequently the atmospheric moisture was more abundant and regular, grew vigorously : so
that we have no doubt the requirements of this species are a well moistened but freely-draincd soil and
damp atmosphere, which can only be secured in many cases by keeping the plants close under glass
Propagation is rarely to be effected by division, lateral crowns being seldom produced ; consequently
plants generally have to be obtained from their native habitats

raised from the spores

‘There are various degrees of development in this species, some of the most distinct of which have

THE COMMON PRICKLY SHIELD FERN

been considered as varieties, and ono at least of them (Zobatum) distinguished as a species by various
authors.

1. Jonchitidioides : this is usually considered as the young state of the form called Zodatum. We aro
by no means certain that this view is correct, for no doubt. vory old roots, as was long ago pointed out
to us by Mr. Bennett, have been found producing the lonchitiform fronds. It would rather seem to be

the debilitated and partially developed condition of Zobatum, whether caused by age or starvation or

any other depressing influence. It is certainly not permanently distinct from Zobatum, but interchange:

able with it, for cultivated plants of lonchitidioides may be nurtured into орай propor ; and lobatum
proper may be starved into Zonehitidioides. "The plant so named is dwarf, simply pinnate, often very
much resembling Р. Lonchitis, but less spiny, not imbricated, and with a greater or less tendency to
become lobed. It is a fertile state

2. lobatum : this variety, which is the fully developed condition of the previous one, has narrow
lance-shaped fronds, one to two feet long, and subbipinnate, 1, a fow only of the pinnules aro developed
tho anterior basal one is always distinct, considerably enlarged, and strongly auricled ; but the rest aro
either decurrent or confluent, and not auricled. Between it and the type of the species, which is
broader, and in which most of the pinnules should be distinct and auricled, thoro is to be found every
grado of variation ; but yet our experience docs not tend to the conclusion that the form called Zobatum
сап be developed into aevdoatum by culture, but on the contrary, that it is a permanent variety of which
various gradations exist, It is a common plant

3. multifidum : this Mr. Wollaston describes as having the apex of the frond multiid, and the pinna:
occasionally dichotomous,

4. proliferum : another of Mr. Wollast es ; it produces bulbils in tho axils of the lower
inne,

5. argutum : this has a broad lanceolate frond, with distinct pinnules as in tho typal plant, and
differs in the form of the pinnules, which are narrowed and elongated ; they terminate in an acute spiny
point, and have long spines to the marginal teeth. It was given to us by Mr. Lloyd, with the
information that it had been gathered in somo part of Buckinghamshire,

‘The variety obtusum, mentioned in the Handbook of British Forns (2 ed, p. 90) as being cultivated
in the Royal Botanie Garden at Kew, cannot bo distinctly traced as a British plant, and is consequently
omitted. It appears from specimens in Sir W. Hooker's, and Mr. Howard's herbaria, to be а North
American form of the species; and it is therefore not improbable that the Kew plant may be of

transatlantic origin

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a A. Polystichum angulare

В. P.angulare hastulatum. С. P.angulare irregulare. D. P.angulare biserratum. E. Pangulare imbricatum

^

A. Polystiehum angulare subtripinnatum

B. P. angulare tripinnatum. С. Р. angulare. proliferum

Prares XI. ах» XIII.

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN

(Ponysticnun ANGULAR).

POLYSTICHUM, Roth. Schott

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, medial, rarely terminal on the venules, covered. by
indusium, or membranous scale. Zndusium orbicular, peltate, / ¢, attached at
or near its centre, the margin becoming free. Veins pinnato-furcate ; couler
direct, disunited at their extremities, the lower anterior one in each fascicle, on
the fertile parts of the frond, bearing a sorus,

Р. axouzaRE: fronds bipinnate, lanceolate, lax; pinnules distinct, acute or obtuse
herbaceous, with an obtuse-angled base, and attached by a distinct stalk
lobed or serrated, the serratures tipped with a soft bristle ; sort terminal or
subterminal

IMBRIATUM: fronds linear-lanceolato; pinnae short bluntish ; pinnules roundish
oblong imbrieated,

жатам: fronds lanceolate rather small; pinnules deeurrent with the winged
secondary rachides, teeth rounded bristle-pointed, (Plate X. fig. C)

FROLIFEROX: fronds lanceolate, lax, bi- or tri-pinnate ; pinnules narrow, attenuated.
distinctly stalked ; usually deeply-lobed, with the lobes widely separated
proliferous on the rachi

тагтинатпи: fronds ample lanceolate ; pinnae crowded ; pinnules imbricated, tho.
anterior basal one much elongated, distinetly pinnate the greater part of its
length, its pinnulets stalke

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

©, Poss

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN.

Cander thick tufted, sealy, егеді or decumbent, formed of the bases of the decayed fronds
surrounding a woody axis, to the apex of which the fronds are attached and adherent, 4. e, not
пеп this part sometimes becomes lengthened, acquiring a trunk-like character, in ver
luxuriant old plants. Seales similar to those borne on the stipes. Fires numerous, strong, cours
branched, dark coloured, toment

‘Stipes rather lengthened, usually from four to six inches long, sometimes considerably longo
densely scaly, with long laneeolate-aeuminato and linear-lanceolate seales of a reddish-tawny colour
and dry membranous texture ; these again intermixed with numerous others, both smaller hair-like
ones and adpressed ciliated seurflike ones, which are continued over the rachis; the larger and
broader ones gradually diminishing from the base upwards, Zachis prominent, rounded behind,
slightly channelled in front, shaggy, with the numerous hair-like scales already mentioned.

Vernation circinate, the main rachis becoming recurved when the frond is about half developed, the
pinnae convolute towards the main rachis,

Frond from two to four or five feet high, and from seven to ten inches across at the broadest part,

herbaceous or subrigid, full green above, paler beneath, usually lax, spreading and more or less arched

ог drooping, numerous, «Lin а cirelet around the crown, lanevolate, bi- or tri-pinnate, Pinna

numerous, nearly linear, rather broadest at the base, tapering towards and acuminate at the apex,
alternate, sometimes distant, the basal ones usually diminishing somewhat in length, but in some plants
longest Pinnules somewhat ereseent-shaped, 1. £, ovate-faleato, with a strong anterior auricle or
projecting lobe, flat, acute or bluntish, distinctly ply serrated on the margins, the serratures
tipped with a soft slender spine or bristle, which is more strongly developed at the apex of the pinnule
апа of the auricle; the base is not toothed, but is somewhat rounded on the posterior side, truncate,
but with a convexity on the side parallel with the rachis, so that the baso becomes an obtuse angle
with slightly curving sides; at the base of this angle is a short but distinet slender stalk diverging
from the rachis at an angle of about 45° by which the pinnules are attached to the rachis of the pinnas
‘The basal anterior pinnule is usually somewhat, often much larger than the rest, and is in somo
plants deeply pinnatifid or even pinnated, and occasionally other pinnules near the base of the pino
fare divided more or less deeply. ‘The under surface of tho pinnules is furnished with fine scattered
hair-like scales.

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a flexuous midvein with alternate veins or branches ; these
keins are furcately branched, producing two, three, or more venules, ‘The anterior venule of the
fascicle is that which bears the sorus, at or very near to its apex. The auricle has a stronger vein,
which is pinnately branched, producing several simple or forked venules, of which some three or

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN

Fructification on the back of the frond, generally occupying the whole of the upper part to the
extent of two-thirds, but sometimes confined on this portion to the upper part of the pins. Sori
small, numerous, round, indusiate, seated at the apex of the venule, forming a line on each side of
the midvein, and also of the vein of the auricle, often crowded, and sometimes becoming confluent

they are attached to the anterior venules of the fasciele, whenever the veins aro forked, but in the

auricle several of the simple venules bear sori. Znzusinm firm, membranaceous, orbieular, peltate, and

umbiliente, Spore-cases numerous, brown, roundish, obovat sto, murieulnte,

Although as regards Р. angulare and Р. aenleatum there is so close an affinity, that instances do
occur in which it is dificult to determine between them, yet, confining our view to the plants as found
in Great Bı at least to those who have made themselves familiar with
the aspect and characteristics of the plants. As to the application of the names, there is doubtless а
certain amount of error and confusion, which it is hoped the autographie delineations in Plates X., XI
ХИ, and XIIL, may assist in correcting. Extending the inquiry, however, so as to include the ex
Ferns of this affinity, the limits of the species become obscuro ; and it is perhaps doubtful whether in.
this more comprehensive view they can bo defined,—at least by means of the mutilated examples alone.
available for examination in herbaria,—with suficiont,elearnoss to be kept permanently separate, "The
study of the living plants may, indeed, afford other distinetive marks than those derived from form and
texture, as in the ease of Polypodium Dryopteris and its ally, which have a different vernation, and in
that of some forms of Lastrea Filiz-nas, in which the same kind of organic difference occurs. With
our present information, however, thero seems no mean between the two extremes of uniting the
simply pinnate Р. Lonchitis with the tripinnate P. angulare, an unbroken series being traceable ; or, on
the other hand, retaining the three British species we have figured (Plates IX, X., and ХП), as well
as some of the allied exotic ones, as distinct, We aro not prepared to adopt the former alternativo,
“and therefore, with all its difficulties, prefer the latter

‘The specific name of angular, which has been generally employed whenever the species has been
kept distinct, is retained for this plant, from a suspicion that it may, after all, be found necessary to.
merge it in Р. aculeatum, in which ease any present change would be impolitie. We have no doubt,
however, that both the P. setiforum of Forskal (1775) and the Polypodium appendiculatum of Hoffmann.
(1795) are referrible here, and these names certainly claim priority over angulare (1810). The law of
priority, which should take effect if our plant should finally prove distinct, would give the name of
Р. seiferum, which is a remarkably suitable one

‘Tho differences between the English Р, angulare and Р. aculeatum have been already pointed out.

(See Plate X)

In the garden, this Forn will bo found very ornamental, and of very easy management, It grows
readily in free sandy loam, either in shady parts of the garden or shrubbery ; on rock-work ; or in the
in-door Fernery ; and it is increased with tolerable facility by division. Some of the varieties, however;
propagate much more extensively by means of bulbils which form either at the base of the stipes below
or about the surface of the soil, or in the axils of the lower pinnw, or in some instances on the veins of.
the fronds. "This remarkable proliferous or viviparous character has now been observed in several of the
British Ferns, including Polystichum Lonchitis ; Р, aculeatum, with its variety lobatum ; P. angulare
three or four varieties ; Zastrea Filiz-mas, two varieties; Z. fanisecii ; Asplenium lanceolatum ; 4.
Ruta-muraria ; Scolopendrium vulgare, several varieties; and Blochnnm Spicant, Besides this
bulbillform mode of inerease, Mr. Wollaston has observed a different kind of developement in a variety
of Polypodium eulgare nearly allied to cambricum, communicated by Mr. E. T. Bennett. In this case the
developement consisted of prothalloid growths on the apices of the serratures of the lobes, which had every

indication of being fertile, though unfortunately the frond was broken off before they were observed, so.

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN

that their vital energy could not be tested. Although among exotic Ferns instances of viviparous

growth wore known to ocenr frequently, yet our acquaintance with so many bulbil-bearing British Ferns
is duo to the serutiny of а few zealous cultivators, especially Mr. Wollaston of Chislehurst, Dr. Allehin
of Bayswater, Mr. Clapham of Scarborough, and Mr, Baxter of Oxford, during the summer of 1854; for
in the most recent publication on the subject, issued in tho earlier part of the same year, Mr. Newman
mentions one British species only, P. angularo, as known to possess this property. Mr. Baxter has

sted that it may be a result of pot-culturo, all the instances in which it has been observed, having
been on potted plants, Tho facts thus observed, appear to afford additional evidence that the fronds
of Ferns are not leaves, as somo would call them, but to which the fact of their normally bearing th
Fructification seems repugnant ; but that they at least include something of the nature of branches.
Another fact which militates against the opinion that the fronds of Ferns are mere leaves is this,
Leaves, it is maintained by physiologists, have their points first formed, the perfected apex being as it
were pushed forward by aceretion from below, but in the fronds of Ferns it may often be seen to
demonstration that the lower parts are perfectly developed and bear mature sori, whilst the apex

is still unrolling ; this is very obvious in the genus Nephrolapis

Polystichum angulare is one of the Ferns which exhibits а. considerable degree of variation, the
differences in some instances being very marked. Mr, Wollaston has furnished us with the greater
portion of the following enumeration of varieties

1. Aastutatum QV). This is a small pinnuled form, quite like the Italian Aastulatum of Tenore, as
figured in the lora Napolitana. It is chiefly remarkable for the small size of the acute pinnules,
and for their distinet and slender footstalk ; the auricle, too, is very distinct, acute, and in tho ease of the
lower pinnules is separated by a deep incision from the rest of the pinnule, It was found near St.
Martha's Hill in Surrey, and probably occurs elsewhere

2. асин (W). This form has the pinnules acute, and very distinctly stalked, but the pinnules are

jor than in the last, rather narrow, faleate, and strongly әшісісі; the serratures are only
slightly developed, but the apices of both the pinnules and auricles are aristate. In appearance it

mewhat approaches 2. aculeatum. It is rather local than uncommon in Sussex, Hampshire, and
probably other counties.

3. arístatum (W.). This, although not unlike the normal state of the species in its form and habit,
differs in having the points of the serratures aristate, and the long hair-like points stand forward in a
remarkable way, giving the plant a bristly appearance, It is, moreover, very proliferous, producing
bulbils on the stipes either beneath or at the surface of the ground. It was found by Mr, Wollaston
in Sussex, in 1854, and retains its peculiarities in the fronds of 1

4. multifidum (W.) has the apex of the frond beautifully tufted, and the pinnze sometimes divided.
It is, perhaps, rather an occasional variation than а permanent variety

5. proliferum (W.). There are two slight modifications of this variety, one of which was reported to
have been found at Wimbledon, Surrey, by Mr. Chonles (though we have specimens from Mr, Pamplin
purporting to be from Devonshire, on the authority of Mr. Choules, and suspect this to be the real
habitat); the other was found recently near Ottery St. Mary, in Devonshire, by Мт, Wollaston, and is
а more lax and elegant plant. Both forms are proliferous, bearing small bulbils chiefly at the point of
junetion of the pinnas with the rachis, but sometimes in the axils of the pinnules. Tt is a most beautiful
plant under cultivation, When perfectly developed, especially in Mr. Wollaston's plant, it is tipinnate ;
the pinnules, which are narrowed and attenuated, as well as very conspicuously stalked, being so deeply
cleft, and the lobes so much separated аз to become pinnulets. When less compound it is stil
remarkable for the narrowed рішшіс the forms produce spores, but not so plentifully as Ше
normal plant, It is the form called angustatum in the second edition of the Handbook of British

Fors, but for the sake of securing as far as practicable uniformity of nomenclature for the corre

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN.

spondent varieties of different species, tho moro chameteristie name of prolferum which has been

ıggested, is here adopted.
6. depauperatum (W.). This very rare and curious variety was found by Dr. Kinahan in Ireland
in 1852, and has since proved more or less constant under cultivation. Its fronds are frequently so.
depauperated that they become mero skeletons, with little but the ribs and veins rem: Occasion.
ally a frond is produced either entirely or partially like the normal form. I hr as is known,
barren, and sometimes produces bulbils, Dr. Kinahan had called this form both Zaciníatum and
den

7. intermedium (W.). This, a robust, fleshy-looking, upright-growing plant, so nearly approaches
Р. aculeatum that it is scarcely distinguishable from it. The fronds are occasionally mulüfd. The
pinnules are crowded and overlapping; subtrapeziform from the unusual development of the anterior
sido; tho margin is deeply incis the basal anterior lobe being very much enlarged, and all

the segments biserrate, and more aristate than is usual. ‘The fronds are frequently abrupt at the apex,

and when so have a tendency to produce bulbils, Tt was found by Mr. R. Sim, near St. Mary's Cray

Kent, and is not common.
pramorsun (A). Although this form has never attained maturity, it is too remarkable not to be

noticed here, ‘The whole plant appears of small growth ; the pinnw are laciniato and irregular; the

pinnules truneate, marginate, and verrueose, It was found in Ireland by Dr. Allchin, in 1853,

9, dissimile (ML). This plant resembles the variety intermedium, in having the segments of its pinnules
bis and more aristate than usual, and it is also proliferous; but it differs from it in having its
fronds frequently depauporated, the pinnas irregularly truncate or multifi and the pinnules very
irregular in size and shape. It has also a remarkably hispid aspect, arising both from the acumination
of its serratures, and the narrowness of the scales with which it is profusely covered. Tt was found in
Kent by Mrs, Delves, and is uncommon,

10. irregularo (М). This was found near Nettlecombe, in Somersetshire, in 1854, by Mr. Elworthy
ardener to Sir W. С. Trevelyan, Bart, It is a very curious form. ‘The lower pinnae, which are the
most perfect in outline, bear varying and unequally ineiso-lobate pinnules, of which the basal anterior
lobe forming the auricle is much enlarged, and considerably detached from the rest, and the rest form
lacerato serratures, all the larger of which in serrated. The upper pinnw aro fertile, more or
less depauperated, and much more irregular in size, outline, and toothing,

11, biserratum (ML), This is a lax form with largo broad pinnules, stalked, inciso-serrate, the basal
anterior lobe separated by a deeper incision, the rest biserrate and aristate. It would appear to have
frequently а very long stipes, It was found by Mr, 8. Е. Gray, near Brentford ; and the same form
seems to be common in Jersey, whence wo have received it from Dr, Allehin and Mr. C, Jackson.

12. alatum (М). Tho remarkable peculiarity of this variety is that the pinnules are connected by а
very obvious wing on both sides the secondary rachides, on which they are decurrent. ‘The pinnules are
moro tapered than usual, with the anterior side most developed, and the margin eut into rounded teeth.
tipped by a bristle ; the under surface is also densely covered with hair-like scales. The fron
about a foot high. It was found in Somersetshire by Mrs, Archer Thompson.

13. imbricatum (М1). This graceful and curious variety is so unlike all other known forms, that had
more than a solitary plant been found, it ought, perhaps, to have taken rank as a species. It is perfectly
distinct from all others, ‘Tho frond is nearly two feet high, of linearJanceolate outline, in this respect,
and in habit, resembling the Polystichum lobatum of authors, though having all the important
characters of Р. angulare, The pinna» are short, linear, bluntish at their apices, often standing nearly
ata right angle with the rachis, ‘The pinnules aro crowded and imbricated, roundish oblong, scarcely
narrowed at the apex, but strongly spinulose-serrate, auricled at the anterior baso, and unequally
serrate; the basal anterior pinnule is larger, and they are all connected with the rachis by a short

somewhat winged petiole, Another remarkable peculiarity in this variety, is that m

THE SOFT PRICKLY SHIELD FERN.

fronds are accompanied by a young one on their inner side, these young ones being found to proceed
from bulbils which are formed beneath the soil on the stipes of the larger fronds. It was found
in Somersetshire by Mr, Elworthy

14. ineisum (W.). This variety, of which there are two forms, is unique in the details of its parts. Tt

is a large-growing plant. The pinnules are very dissimilar in size and shape; a few on the lower

portion of the frond, aro simply divided as in the variety subéripinnatum, but as they approach the apex

they become more and more incised and irregularly Ineiniated or jagged ; their segments are again
serrated, those nearest the secondary rachis being somewhat prolonged or auricled. ‘The whole pinnule
is subpinnatifid, Тһе two plants referred to differ much in size; the one found by Mr. Wollaston іш
Sussex, being upwards of four fect in height; the other, found by Dr, Allchin also in Sussex, is of
smaller growth. For the latter, Dr. Allchin had suggested the name of marginatum, having detected a
disruption of the epidermis on somo of the pinnules, but the two are too nearly allied to bear
distinct. names,

15. subtripinnatu (М), This is one of the more highly developed states of the species ; in it all the
lower pinnules, the basal ones in particular, aro so deeply pinnatifid that the segments become almost
distinct, and sometimes quite so, It is of largo growth. In other respects it resembles the normal type.
It is common in Ireland, and, we believe, plentiful in England in damp shady situations, Our figure of
this variety (sce Plate XIIL, fig. A), necessarily taken from a small frond, docs not well show its
‘compound character, which is better represented by the detached pinna.

16. tripinnatun (ML). This very beautiful and peculiar variety has been called tripinnatum, in contrast
with the sultripinmatum just described, in consequence of its basal anterior pinnules being much more
distinctly pinnate, though the plant is on the whole Tess divided than the Devon form of the variety
proliferum, or the Trish variety decompositum, The most remarkable peculiarity is the unusual
elongation of the anterior basal pinnules, and their truly pinnate character, the little pinnulets being
distinctly stalked. "The other pinnules are highly developed, though less so than tho basal ono, and
they are crowded and imbricated. Tt is profuse in tho production of sori, and thickly covered with
subulate scales, It was found in Cornwall by Mr. Millet ; and was first made known to cultivators
by Mr, E. J. Lowe, It is a vory marked aberration from the normal form, and appears to be very rare.

17. decompositum (М2). This beautiful variety is by far the most compound or divided form of the
normal race of this species, The fronds aro divided thus—first, pinto, then pinnules, pinnulets, and
lobes of pinnulets, and these latter aro again serrated. ‘The basal pinnules are tolerably exact
miniatures of Р. aouloatum, having their first pinnulets auricled and serrated as in that species. Tho
plant is of Irish origin, and is cultivated in the Glasnevin Botanic Gardens, where it was observed by
Dr. Allehin.

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TING A. Lastrea Filix- mas pumila. B.l..Vilix-mas paleacea.

Prares XIV. XV. ХУІ. XVII.

THE MALE FERN, or COMMON BUCKLER FERN

(Lasrrea Frnix-vas).

LASTREA, Pres.

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, medial or subterminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium, or membranous senle. Zndusiwm reniform, e, more or less regularly
rotundate with a posterior notch ; attached by the sinus or notch, the n
becoming free. Veins simple, forked, or pinnate; cenules direct, disunited a
their extremities

1. Fruxaas: fronds lanevolate sub-bipinnate or bipinnate ; pinnze linear tapering to
the apex ; pinmules oblong obtuse, serrate (principally at the apex), erenate or
inciso-lobate at the margin, the basal ones more or less distinct, the upper

confluent; serratures not spinulose ; indusium convex, persistent, (and except in

abbreciata and pumila) without marginal

Lui Tuixaus, Pre по. ecl

Var. olsa: fronds robust, Di 3 pinnules pyramidately-oblong, acutish, deeply
inciso-lobate, the lobes serrate ; sori usually occupying nearly the whole pinnule

Derorrrum Frases ілі, Noonan, Hy Y Dei Fera 187.

Var. PALEAGEA: fronds sub-bipinnate ; pinnulos oblong truncatoly obtuso, serrate at the
apex, with numerous hair-seales beneath ; sori distinct, often small, confined to
the lower part of the pinnules ; margin of the indusium much inflected boneath
the sporo-cases ; stipes and rachis shaggy with long tapering scales, usually of.
a lustrous golden-brown, those of the base broader.

Тизем, or талата, Жоғ, Honda of rid Fen (185), 110.

Var. кълвхутата: fronds dwarfish, glandular, sub-bipinnate, the pinna» concave, seareely
pinnate; pinnules large (comparatively) bread obtuso mostly decurrent,

Е MALE FERN

unequally erenate or erenato-lobate, the lobes with blunt teeth ; sori usually

wniscrial on each side the midrib of pinna» ; indusium fringed with glands,
Роепевем aasanviare, De Onl Flore rege, ch, 0

Var. roxtra: fronds dwarf, glandular, sub-bipinnate; pins deflexed, concave ; pin
mules small, convex, mostly confluent, bluntly erenato-serrate ; sori usually
‘confined to the Zowest anterior venule of the lowest pinnules, and thus arranged.
in a single sories on each side the midrib of the pinne ; indusium somewha
nflected at the margin, and beaded with (7 deciduous) short-stalked glands

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

Pass XY. aeria Ралев rin A, fn Menor, Sum a, Samy; Т.Ш.

Толе XVI—A, дива. Fincas enar, culte Mt, Deo, В, аяты, Pacos rorrouertia; tom
Pass XVIL-A, Larrea Inzxaus тыма elated; Сыйна Potente Garden

9, Lasrara amas rosa
"lalo Keo ond (міне Mani белім.

HABITAT. Tis оге of xr most common and diera Бити, ретіне abundantly ік
tias ee (he wl logan, Wal Sd end Trad, м wil as i
in Queen and Jon

gura of Samer; Tuntridgo Well Kent; Cam, nd of Surrey, ш the math;
ort Data, and Westra ‘oth Neth ad South Wal be Sih moll
Thecus ao In Je and Guam and De. Alcón ira va tat ho бе

Feed теме pc to چ‎ AS
for b band а а шону чур; I along the Ali (ater) т vol a dong 0
түте А Nogal to Азан (ША. оќо). Tis Gelder se) ers

{ith әйе, Lil, T Sail),

Caudex large, tufted, sealy, етее or decumbent, often in age becoming considerably elongated,

yg of the bases of the old fronds persistent around a woody axis, from the apex of which appear

the growing fronds, which are thus terminal, and adherent, Seales like those at the base of the
stipes, Fibres protruding from among the bases of the fronds at tho lower part of the caudes, strong,
coarse, dark coloured, deeply penetrating,

‘Stipes short, stout, from three to six inches long, terete, slightly channelled in front, densely
clothed with largo scales of а narrow lanceolate attenuate outline, membranaccous ehaffy texture,
amd pale brown colour, intermixed with smaller and shorter omes. achis clothed sparingly with

small subulate scales

Vernation eireinate, the apex of the frond becoming liberated before the whole rachis is uncurled,

and at this stage bent downwards with a curve resembling that of a shephenl's eroo

THE MALE FERN

Fronds averaging two or three feet in height, but varying from a foot to four or six feet, according
to ago, variety, and locality ; they grow erectish, and when the crown is vertical are arranged in a
cirelet around it; they are herbaceous, smooth, of a lively rather deep green, somewhat paler beneath
in outline broadly lanceolate with a gradually tapering apex, or sometimes oblong lanceolate with a
sudden acumination at the apex; bipinnate. Pinna numerous, alternate or nearly opposite, linear
gradually narrowing towards the apex, which is acuto ; the lower ones decreasing in length from about
the middle of the frond, the lowermost measuring an inch or rather more in length in fronds of a foot
and a half long, those about the middle being three or four inches long the lower pinne are also more
distant than those higher up. Pinnules at the base of the pinna distinct or slightly connected by а
narrow wing to the rachis, notehed on both sides at the base, but with a broad attachment, the first
pair somewhat larger than the rest, which are generally attached by the entire width of their baso with
a very narrow sinus, and more or less combined ; oblong obtuse, 4.0, of equal width throughout, with
the apex rounded, slightly erenate or erenato-lobed at the margin, serrated principally around tho blunt
apex, the teeth acute but not spinulose,
Venation of the pinnules consisting of a flexuous midvein bearing alternate branches or veras, which
ain branched once or twice, these secondary branches or venues extending nearly to the margin
cach venule (or vein) itself if simple or the anterior branch if ramified, proceeding towards the point of
оле of the marginal serratures, just within which it terminates. The manner of rumifying is, by what.
is called forking, which consists in the production of two branches both slightly and about equally
diverging from the straight line. In the larger varieties there are more of these forkings than in the
smalle
Fructification on the back of the frond, rarely extending more than half-way down, and most
copious on the upper third. Sori numerous distinct, roundish-reniform, in the normal form confined to
the lower half of the pinnules, attached to the anterior venule at a short distance above its source, and

much below its termination, thus being medial on the vein, and forming two short lines extending

upwards from the baso of the pinne, rather nearer the midvein than the margin. Zudusium firm,

convex, persistent, reniform, ё. e, roundish with a posterior notch, affixed by the notch or sinus, with
ап entire margin, e, without marginal glands, (except in pumila, and abbreviata, which are probably
distinct) and acquiring a grayish or leaden hue as the fructification becomes matured. Spore-cases
reddish brown, obovate. Spores oblong, murienlate,

Duration. Тһе rhizome is perennial. Young fronds are produced about May, which endure

throughout the summer and autumn and until destroyed by severe frost

"This plant is the type of the modem genus Lastrea—consisting of indusiato free-veined dot-fruited
Ferns, having tho indusium reniform, 4 e. round with a notch in the margin, forming а sinus by which it
is affixed, The name Zastrau was first and long ago used by Bory for a sub-generie group, which
neither according to ancient or modern views could be held to have any value; the name had
consequently lapsed, but was revived by Presl for the group above indicated. There is no ground
whatever for the arbitrary selection, which Mr. Newman has made, of Z. Oreopteris, as the plant to bear
Bory's name, to the exclusion of all the other species now usually associated with ib: as he himself has
indeed shown by quoting Bory’s subgenerie character, the application of which to this plant was an
original error of observation, or at least the result of imperfect observations, Lastrea Oreopteris does,
in fact, much less accord with Bory’s character than do the three Polypodies he associated with it
Presl was therefore quite justified when in 1836 he revived Bory’s name (altering it to Lastrea) for a
proposed group which included two of Bory’s five species —7helypteris and Orcopteris,—tho others being
referrible to Polypodium. Presl’s genus, as wo have already remarked, is rather typified by the subject
of our present plato, although it fairly includes the two species just mentioned. We must here protest

ainst the freak in which Mr. Newman has indulged, of scattering among the British Zastivas thn

THE MALE FERN

additional generic names, with frivolous distinctions, to the perplexity of amateur, and the dissatisfaction
fessional botanists

The generic name Dryopteris was suggested by Schott for the Male Fern in 1834; and ther
doubt that this is also the Dryopterís of Adanson. ‘The botanical name-reformers of the beginni
the present century would have dono well to have availed themselves of this name ; but it is surely not
binding on us now to revert to such antiquities, Tt has, however, been adopted for the whole group by
Dr. Asa Gray, Of the two names applied to these plants which have thus been supported by modern
botanical authority, we select that of Lastron, which has been most widely adopted, and as avoiding
much needless change, The old name of Aspidium, which somo retain, and with which Roth's
Polysticium is nearly equivalent and cooval, seems more properly applied to species having peltate
indusia, as is suggested by Swartz himself, who uses the terms peltate and umbilicato, before those of
veniform and dimidiate, all however being included by him. These several names were judiciously
distributed twenty years sinee—Aspiddium to the netted-veined peltate Aspidiew ; Polystichum to the
free-veined peltate Aspidiew ; and Lastres to the free-veined reniform Aspidiew ; and no further
‘lange, at least for the British species, is now required.

When the species of Zastrea and Polystichum were included under Aspidiwn they bore the English
name of Shield Fern. It is however objectionable to use the same English name for different genera,
and as the old name of Shield Fern is more properly applied to the Polystichums, which are the most
genuine Aspidia, we have proposed in the Hundlook of British Ferns, to use for the Lastreas, the

equivalent name of Buckler Fern, which is here also adopted.

‘The common Male Fern cannot well be mistaken for any other native species, Tt has been formerly

confounded with Z. eristata, but the two have no very close affinity, and the only resemblance occurs in
а form of Filie-mas, not common, in which the lower pinnw are triangular, The Incised variety is in
some respects like Z. rigida, but obviously different in many others,

The Incised Male Forn—L Fraxcaras 1xcisa—(Praerz XV) is altogether a larger and more striking
plant than the normal form, more robust, averaging three or four fect, and sometimes reaching six feet
in height, with a stipes of five or six inches, The fronds in unfolding liberate the point, which becomes
Dent like the curvo of а shepherd's erook, as in the common plant; they are distinctly bipinnate,
lanceolate, not contracting abruptly near the apex. ‘The pinnw are elongate, tapering gradually to the
apes. "The pinnules are somewhat less closely placed; the basal ones notched, often deeply, on each
side their base, thus having a narrow attachment, clongately pyramidate-oblong, broadest at the base,
and with a narrowed though rounded apex ; the rest more broadly attached, and more equal in width ;
the margins more or less deeply inciso-lobate, the lobes three to five-toothed. ‘The venation is moro
highly developed, thus: a vein is directed up the centre of each lobe, and this bears alternately
several venules ; but the sori are, notwithstanding, produced only on the anterior basal venule of
‘each faseicle, so that, as in the normal form, they are ranged in a single lino on each side the midvein,
commonly extending, however, much nearer to the apex of the pinnule. ‘The indusium is here reniform.
as in the other, convex, entire, and persistent. "The irregularly deformed monstrous leafy
developments of this variety constitute the Aspidium depastum of Schikuhr, This variety is probably
equally common with the type form, and appears as widely dispersed ; it is eortainly found in the
south and south-western, the midland and the northern counties of England ; in Wales; in the cast.
and south-west of Scotland ; in the Channel Isles ; and about Kingstown, Dublin, Ireland, whence it has
been sent to us by R. Barrington, Esq. Our figure necessarily represents a small and therefore less
‘characteristic specimen.

The Dwarf Male Fem—L, Ғиах-мав rowina—(PLare ХУП) is permanently smaller, and less
developed than the normal plant, Tt usually grows from nino inches to a foot in height, and таго
when very vigorous, reaches the height of a foot and a half, Tho stipes is two to three inches long, the

fronds lanceolate, pinnate; the pinnas short, bluntish, and pinnatilid, rarely pinnate ; the pinnules or

THE MALE FERN.

lobes small oblong: obtuse, obscurely erenated, convex, but recurved at the points, so that the pinnw are

coneave, the points of the pinnze being also recurved, so that the frond itself is concave, The venation
is comparatively віш е midvein, which is carried up each lobe, produces veins of which the lower
are once forked, the upper simple. In frond: wth, scarcely any but the anterior branch
of the lowest anterior vein in each lobe or pinnule bears a sorus, the sorî then forming an aln
line on each side the midrib of the pinnas about even with the sinuses of the pinnules, When however
the growth is very luxuriant, a few of the basal pinnules bear two, three, or four sori each, but even in
these cases, the sori form two simple series for more than half the length of the pinna. The indusium
is convex, reniform, persistent, and its margin is somewhat inflected beneath the spore-cases, and beaded
with short-stalked deciduous, probably, glands This rare Fern appears to have been brought from
Snowdon, and has been recently found near Llyn Ogwen by Mr. 8. O. Gray. It seems really to offer
specific differences, in its constantly small size, the direction of the pinnz and pinnules, the peculiar
distribution of the sori, the glandular inflected indusium, and in the important character of vernation.
In the process of unrolling its fronds, nothing like the shepherd's crook form is seen, but the rachis
gradually wnrols from the base to the apex. It is also reproduced from the spores, although that
alone is not evidence of its distinetness, On the other hand, the general form of the parts, and of the
sori and indusia, agree with diminutive examples of the Male Fern, The fresh fronds are fragrant, in
consequence no doubt of the presence of numerous small glands on their surface ; the fragrance having.
something of the sweetness of Mignonette

The Abbreviated Male Fern—L. Ёплх-мля aprneviara—is one of the permanently smaller forms, and.
is probably specifically distinet ; though the Dwarf Male Fern has many characters in common with it,
and the two are perhaps forms of one subalpine species, The present is however а larger plant, with
considerably larger, broader, and therefore coarser looking pinnules, and although they aro to some extent
recurved, yet they are by no means so fully nor so constantly so, as in Z. pumila, This also has the
fronds, at least while young, glandular and fragrant

ho Golden-sealed Male Fern—L. Funix-uas parmacra—(Prare ХҮП.) differs from the normal
form, most obviously in its colour which is a yellowish green, and in the abundance of the lustrous

lden-tinted scales, which clothe its stipes and rachis, so densely that their rich colouring is
always conspicuous, but most so on inspecting the back of the frond, ‘The same plant seems
to havo attracted Mr. Lowe's notice in Madeira, and that of Dr. Wallich in the East Indies ; and by
its peculiar scaliness serves also to connect the common European Fili-mas, with some South
American Ferns to which other names have been given. Tho outline of the frond, the pinnae and
the pinmules, is like that of the less developed forms of the common plant; that is, the fronds are
broad lanceolate, the pinnze pinnate only at their baso, the pinnules oblong, obtuse, serrated at the apex,
with a broad attachment, Мг. Wollaston points ont, that the rachis and midveins are more or less
tinged with purple, but this also occurs sometimes in incisa. The sori are often, if not always, smaller
and the indusium before maturity, and even when the spore-cases are ripening, has its margins very
much inflected beneath them, so that, when reversed, it is seen to have the form of a little pouch,
just in fact like that presented by one of the leaflets of Cheilanthes lendigera. In the common and
incised forms of Hilée-mas, the margin of the indusium is merely bent down straight, a little sloping
‘outwards till it comes in contact with the surface of the pinnule. ‘The plant appears not uncommon, but
its range is not fully known. It is, in part, from the Indian forms of this plant—forms in which wo ean
detect no difference except the darker colour of their scales, and their somewhat larger growth—that
Prof. Braun has constituted his genus Diehasium, which is characterised by having « biscutelloid indusia,
which are indusia of roundish outline with a sinus extending upwards beyond the centro, so that the
lobes look like two flaps. We have ascertained from a careful examination of Dr. Wallich’s specim
that this appearance of the indusia is merely the result of age, Tn the younger and perfect state the

indusium is round, convex, with a posterior noteh or sinus, and'very much inflected margins, just as

THE MALE FERN

occurs in the British plant, As the spore-eases enlarge, they aro unable to lift off the indusium, in
consequence of its constrieted margin, and the result is that the edge becomes split opposite the sinus.
The indusium is then pushed up by the advancing spore-cases, the upper margin is apparently brought
nearer the point of attachment, and the two halves assume the appearance which attracted the
attention of Prof. Braun, Exactly the same structure of indusium occurs in the other spocios referred
to this supposed genus—a Columbian plant collected by Hartwog

‘The culture of the Male Fern is not at all difficult, It may be grown in any cool shady place, in
almost any kind of soil, the best being a sandy loam, moist, but not wet. It may be planted with good
effect about shady walks, in woods and wilderness scenery, and on shady rockwork, ‘The variety ineisa
is the most striking, where effect only, and not variety, is the object. Potted plants require ample

space, and should be plunged out-doors in winter. It is increased by division,

The following is an enumeration of the principal variations, For most of the memoranda we are
indebted to Mr. Wollaston ; who, it is right to stato, considers our varieties pateacea and pumila to be

distinct species? and refers the variety eristata—the most important of the whole in an ornamental
point of view—as a variety to the former

1. paleacea (М). This variety, called Borrerí Бу Mr. Newman, and pseudo-mas by Mr. Wollaston,

sub-bipinnate, the lower pinnules only being distinct; the pinnules are oblong, truncately-obtuse,
amd serrated at the apex. It differs from the normal plant in being of a yellowish hue, somewhat
glaucous beneath, and in having its stipes and rachis quite shaggy, with lustrous goldon-brown scales,
It also differs, as already mentioned, in having the purple ribs and veins, and in the sides of the
indusium being inflected beneath the spore-cases Tt is a widely dispersed, and probably not
‘uncommon form,

2. multiida (W.). This form of variation shows itself in the typical Filizznos as well ns in the
golden-scaled type to which the present is roferred. The peculiarities consist in the apex of
the frond, and of more or fewer of the рішше being bifid or multifid; and the pinnwe are also
‘occasionally depauperated to a meme rib, It is not quite permanent under cultivation, but
nearly so.

3. eristata (ML). This very beautiful aberration, also referrible to the golden-sealed type, is exactly
analogous in character to the Adhyrinm Filie femina, var. multifidum, and is possibly still more
beautiful. The apex of the frond and the apices of the pinnw throughout its whole length, are
Denntifully and uniformly tufted or tasselled ; the pinnw are also somewhat shorter than usual, and
narrow rapidly towards the tassel, Тһе most beautiful form having these peculiarities was found at

Charleston, near St. Austell, in Cornwall, Other plants resembling this have been found in

Devonshire and Staffordshire. Like all other permanent varieties, this is produced freely and

almost without variation from the spores
4, prolifera (Wo). This was raised from spores of the variety cristata, and resembles it in being

tasselled, but it is much more erisped, as well as depauperated, and Inciniated ; its chief peculiarity

THE MALE FERN.
consists in its bearing bulbils, generally on the external. side of the stipes, near its junction with the
tufted caudex, Probably in old plants the viviparous character will be more abundantly devel

5. dichotoma (W.)

pod.
"This is a multiid variation of tho normal Ziliz-mas, exactly corresponding in its
peculiarities with the variety multjida, already noticed, in having the apex of the frond and of all or
the greater part of the pinnae two-cleft or many-cleft, the pinnae occasionally depauperated. It is only
sub-permanent. It differs from mudtjfida, е, in the absence of the golden scales, and the other marks
of the paleacea group.

6. incisa (ML). As already explained, this is a larger plant than the normal form, of which it is

probably the full development. It is distinetly bipinnato; the pinnules elongate, narrowed upwards,

and usually bearing sori nearly their whole length. Tt is a common and very ornamental plant, with

an erect stately habit, A very large and handsome form of this variety, with the pinmules more
distant, narrow, and elongate than usual, as well as somewhat faleate, has heen gathered in the Isle of

it, by Mr. A. 6. More and the Res. W. Н. Hawker

7. «тога (W.). This, which is doubtless the ALspidiwm depastum of Schkuhr, is distinguished by the
irregularly laciniate form of the pinnwe and pinnules, giving the appearance of having been nibbled. by
insects, It is occasionally multiid at the apices of the frond and pinnas but not uniformly so. It is
fertile and sub-permanent

В. deorso-lobata (ML). A large growing variation of the ineisa group. ‘The pinnules are oblon
and obtuse, the basal ones with a narrow attachment; the margins of the basal ones are more or less
inciso-lobate, with the lobes serrated, and the lower posterior one much enlarged and forming a
kind of auricle directed towards the main rachis, which is the chief peculiarity of the variety, and
оссш in various lesser degrees in most of the common states of this type, The rest of the pinnules
are more or less inciso-sorrato. This is the variety “spinasum” of the earlier editions of Mr. Francis's
Analysis of British Ferns (under Aspidium), but is not at all spinose. It appears to be common, and
to be in fact one of the two larger forms into which the species is commonly developed, the
characteristics of the two being sometimes united in one plant. The Rev. W. A. Leighton appears to
have first noticed the peculiar lobing ; his specimens gathered twenty years since are from Bomere and
Sutton in Shropshire, and from Anglesea. We have also scen specimens from Ballyvanghan in Ireland,
Callender in Scotland, Bedale in Yorkshire, Black Park in Bucks, Maidstone and Cobham in Kent
Albury in Surrey, Epping in Essex, Lynn in Norfolk ; as well as from Jersey and Guernsey

9. producta. QE). This is a very striking variety, somewhat analogous to (лойи, being like it a
large growing plant, with fronds at least three feet long and ten inches broad, and also resembling it
in tho divided condition of the pinnules, which are however much more deeply divided, The frond is
lanceolate; the lowest pair of pinnas two inches and а half long, triangular acuminate; the next are
more than four inches long, triangular elongate, being nearly two inches across the base, gradually
tapering to a sharp elongated point ; those in the upper part of the frond, though narrower at the
base, are also triangular elongate, the base being broadest, though in the uppermost the sides become
more nearly parallel. The pinnules throughout are elongated, deeply pinnatifid, and narrow upwards
to the apex, their outline being that of a narrow cone or pyramid ; this, together with the deep and
conspicuous lobing, gives to the plant a very distinct appearance. The basal pinnules, whieh aro
ent down more than half way to the midrib, have an attachment so narrow as to resemble a mere
winged petiole ; tho rest, half way up the pinne, though adnate are attached by loss than their whole
width. ‘The lobes of the pinnules are obscurely serrated at the end, The sori are confined to the upper
third of the frond ; and on the only frond we have seen have a manifest tendeney to occupy rather the
central than the basal portion of the pinnules: that is, they aro distant from the base on those pinnules
which occupy the lower half of the fertile pinne. This variety was found by the Rev. W. A. Leighton,
xt Wrekin, in Shropshire

10. (rianguturie (ML). This form belongs to the ineísa group, but has something of the aspect of

THE MALE FERN

Lastrea cristata, being remarkable for its narrow stil eroctish fronds, and especially for the unequally
triangular outline of a few of the lower pinnae, the lowest pair especially ; these having аз indeed the
Whole frond has—mueh more the outline met with in Z. spinosa than that which usually occurs in.
2. Fitic-mas, The pinnules are longish and all but the basal ones adnate or decurrent; they are
inciso-serrate or lobed, and they sometimes show the enlarged posterior basal lobe, which occurs in
deorso-obata. Tt has been found in several parts of Kent, from whence we are indebted for specimens
to Dr. Allehin.

11. polydactyla (М1). This isa tassollod form of Filiz-mas, roforrible to the incisa group. "The pinna
are not shortened as in tho variety eristata, nor do they narrow much until quite close to the tassel
Which terminates each of them. The pinnules are incised, and the basal ones have a tendeney to
dilatation. "The apex of the frond is more or less tufted. Here and there a frond has its apex more
decidedly tasselled, and the pinna» themselves moro normal, merely indicating a tendeney to division
while occasionally a frond is produced in which the tendency to laceration both in the ping and
pinnules is carried to excess, becoming grotesque, Tt was found at Bromsgrove, in Worcestershire, and
was communicated by В. Maund, Esq

12. ablveviata (Bab), This is a dwarf-growing form, seldom exceeding a foot in height, and its young
fronds are glandular and fragrant. It is pinnate; the pinnas scarcely again pinnate, the lowest
pinnules only being sometimes separated, tho remainder always decurrent ; the points of the pinnules
are turned upwards so that the upper surface of the pinnw is concave. The pinnules are lange for the.
size of the plant, broad, rounded at the apex, the margin unequally erenate, or erenato-lobate, the lobes.
haying blunt obscuro teeth, It is allied to the variety pumila, but differs in the larger size of its
pinnules, which gives it a coarser aspect, and it is not so much recurved. The sori are for the most part
wniserinl on cach side the midrib of the pinne ; and have indusia which at least while fresh, are
‘margined with glands, as in pumila, It is rare, having been found in the Snowdon and Lake districts
and at Ingleborough and Teesdale, and Wyek in Gloucestershire

13. pumila (ME), This is a permanently small dwarf plant, remarkable am
for the recurving of the points of its pinus, and of its pinnules, which give to its upper surface
concave appearance. The pin are blunt, rather deflexed, and scarcely ever more than deeply
pinnatifid, the basal pinnules only being sometimes, but rarely, semi-detached. Tho pinnules or
segments are small, oblong, obtuse, convex, and bear a single sorus near their base on the anterior
side; the sori, therefore, forming a simple series along the pinnze on each side their rachis or midrib,

It is only when the plant is very luxuriant that two or three вон are borne on each of the basal

pinmules, but even then not so as to disturb the general wniserial arrangement. The fronds are

glandular, at least when young, and fragrant Wollaston finds it sometimes dichotomously
divided at the apex. It seems confined to North Wales, and to alpine localities,

14. subintegra (М2). This variety, which oceurs in the late Mr. Wineh's herbarium, belonging to
the Linnean Society, is doubtless a form closely allied to pumila and abbroviata, As in them
the fronds are glandular, dwarf, and merely pinnate ; the pinnae are short and very obtuse, pinnatifid
half way down into blunt ob i (not merely sinuated, as Mr, Newman's figure indicates)
‘The sori are large, and form a single line on each sido the midvein, about equidistant from it and
the margin. The frond has a very narrow lanee-shaped outline, 16 is stated by Dr. Johnstone

to have been gathered, long since, in abundance, by the Rev. J. Baird, at Ennis, in the county of

Clare, Ireland,

rigida

Lastrea

Prare ХҮШ

THE RIGID BUCKLER FERN (Lasers mmy).

LASTREA, Presi,

«f Spore-enses circular, medial or subterminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium, or membranous scale. Zudusium reniform, ї. е, more or less regularly
rotundate with a posterior notch ; attached by the sinus or notch, the margin,

becoming free. Veins simple, forked, or pinnate ; venules direct, disunited at

their extremities,

riangular or lanceolate, bipinnate, glandular ; pinna» taper
to the apex ; pinnules oblong, blunt, lobed, the segments broad rounded,
two- to five-toothed, the teeth not spinulose ; indusium convex, persistent,

fringod with glands.

of the Northern Unite ші

Тотош statu, ens, Api to Phila, v Lita of Brith Fran 96.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE,

Caudez thick, sealy, tufted, decumbent, formed of the bases of the decayed fronds closely surrounding.
a woody axis, to the apex of which the fronds are attached and adherent. Seales lanceolate attenuate,
and lincar-lancoolato, or subulate. Fibres long wiry branched, dark-eoloured

Stipes short, about one-third of the length of the entire frond, sometimes more, thickened at the
base, glandular, densely clothed with long subulato or lincar-lanecolate narrow-pointed, membranous,
scales intermixed with broader ones, all of a reddish-brown colour; the seales become smaller and
undant upwards, Rachis furnished with seattered hair-like scales ; both primary and secondary

rachidos bearing numer ort-stalked translucent glands,

THE RIGID BUCKLER FERN

Vernation circinato
Frond from one to two fect high, firm, dull. green, paler beneath, the surface sprinkled over while

young with numerous minute spherieal short-stalked almost sessile glands, which give it then а

glaucous hue, not conspicuous in the dried plants, and at tho same time impart a slight but peculiar

ud agreeable fragrance ; spreading or crcotish, bipinnate, usually elongutely lar, the lower
рше being somewhat the longest, and the rest gradually shortening to the apex; sometimes, how-
ever, the outline is lanceolate, Pinne alternate, the lower ones subopposite, distinetly triangular
the middle ones moro or less oblong with a tapering point, the uppermost narrowly triangular, i. 6
tapering from the base upwards, Pinandes oblong or ovate-oblong, truncate at Ше base, obtuse at
the apex, the lower ones shortly stalked, the upper adnate, deeply pinnatifid; the lobes oblong
notched, the upper with about two, the lower with about five teeth, which are acute but not spinuloso

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a sinuous midvein, branching alternately, so as to throw a
rein into each lobe; each of these veins branches so as to produce a ende extending up towards
each marginal tooth, but not reaching the margin. The lower anterior venulo is fertile

Fructification on the back of the frond, occupying about the upper half. Sort rather largo, round,
numerous and occupying the whole length of the pinnules, indusiate, medial on the basal anterior
venules, forming a line on each side of and near to the midvein, becoming crowded and often confluent
over the whole central portion of the pinnules. Indusiim lead-coloured, firm membranaceous,
persistent, convex, reniform, 4. ¢. round with a posterior sinus by which it is affixed, glandular both on
the surface and at the margin, with stalked glands, Spore-eases numerous, brown, obovate. Spores
oblong, muriculate,

Duration, The caudex is perennial, The fronds are annual, produced in spring and perishi

autumn.

‘This species may be known from those to which itis allied by several characteristics. The fronds
are comparatively small, generally broadest at the baso, always covered with minute glands, which give
off a pleasant balsamic fragrance, often appreciable in the vicinity of the living plants during sunshine.
"The outline of the pinnules—bluntly oblong—different from that which occurs in any other nativo
species, is most nearly approached by some states of tho Incised Male-Fern, and the serratures, as in
that species, are not at all spinulose or awn-tipped, but are short and merely acute; but from that it is
distinguished by its size, its outline, its glandular surface, and its glandular-fringed indusium. Tt can
hardly be mistaken for any other of the Zastreas, nearly all the rest of which have spinulose serratures,
‘The culture of this Fern is very similar to that of the other larger growing kinds, Tt grows well in
free well-drained loamy soil ; and the fact of its rango being almost if not quite confined to limestone
mountains suggests that the use of limestone among the soil may be beneficial, though it is certainly not
essential to success, It is of far more importance that the soil should be kept moderately moist, а
should bo of such a texture, as may at the same time prevent any accumulation of stagnant water.
is increased by separating the lateral crowns formed by the caudex. The latter is the better for bei
somewhat elevated above the soil in planting, for being decumbent in habit, it does not when planted

deeply liberate its erown so readily as the more erect-habited species.

Mr. Wollaston notices a variation in which the fronds or the pinnw are simply or multfidly divided

at the apes, but it is not a constant уші

Е)
AS

S

=

Lastrea cristata

Lastrea cristata uliginosa .

Prares XIX. XX.

THE CRESTED BUCKLER FERN (Lasmea смѕтата).

LASTREA, Pres.

Clusters of Spore-cases eireular, medial or subterminal on the venules, covered by an
indusiuan, or membranous scale. Zudusium reniform, Y, ¢, more or less regularly.
rotundate with а posterior notch; attached by the sinus or notch, the margin
becoming free. Veins simple, forked, or pinnate ; venules direct, disunited at
their extremities

L, CRISTATA: fronds erect, narrow linear-oblong, sub-bipinnate (or bipinnate) ; pinnae
short triangular, with oblong pinnules or segments, which are nearly always
connected at the base, erenato-serrate, or obscurely lobed, with aristato teeth ;
anterior and posterior basal pinnules on the lower pinnae nearly equal ; scales of
tho stipes ovate, pallid, scattered ; indusium without marginal glands,

of ai

2, еді Ренаты

MM. Widens; je Patrem . ЭШ. Sprengel Srta Тачан |
този emma, 4. бузу, ned of Ion YN

Var. vutomosa: fronds various: сану fertile ones tall, егесі, narrow, linear-Janceolato,
bipinnate below, with oblong-acute, adnate, inciso-serrate, or lobed pinnules,
having aristato пешей teeth ; barren ones shorter, with oblong bluntis
pinnules, adnate or decurrent ; later fertile ones broader, with oblong bluntish

enato-serrate pinnules ; anterior and posterior basal pinnules of the lowest
pinnw nearly equal in siz
"n nilo Dri fees Dai f Brita Boton, 410.

Var. serxuzosa: seo Lastra врлина (Plate XXI).

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

THE CRESTED BUCKLER FEI

Caudex stoutish, decumbent, or slowly erecping, £ e. extending in a horizontal direction, the
fronds of each season being in advance of those of the preceding one; branched, searcely tufted,
somewhat scaly, formed of tho enlarged living bases of the decayed fronds surrounding а woody
axis, Scales similar to those of the stipes. Frey numerous, coarse, dark brown, branched.

‘Stipes terminal and adherent to the eaudex, about one-third of the entire length of the frond, stout,
shining, dark brown at the base, the brown blending with green upwards, sparsely sealy, with broad
ovate membranous pale-brown scales, whieh are for the most part appressed, and are most numerous
near the base. Rachis stout, channelled in front, almost free from scales, pale green,

Vernation cireinate, the pinnte lying flat against the sides of the incurved rachis,

Frond from one to three feet high, herbaceous, dull green, erect, narrow Iinear-oblong, tapering
at the apex, scarcely at all narrowed at the base, sub-bipinnate, Pinna numerous, tho lower ones
distant, sub-opposite, broad triangular, two inches long, an inch and a half brond at the base; the
upper more contiguous, alternate, elongate triangular, those near the middle of the frond measurin
about two and a half inches long, and nearly an inch and a quarter broad at the base; all shortly
stalked, the stall twisted so that their upper surface is directed towards the apex of the frond. Pinnules
oblong, bluntish, all more or less adnate, and connected by the wing of the rachis ; the basal ones only,
‘and these only on highly developed fronds, having a narrow attachment, pinnatifidly lobed, the lobes
serrate, with spinuloso teeth ; the rest of the pinnules are ineiso-erenate at tho margin, serrate
at the apex, the erenatures serrated, and all the serratures tipped by a spinulose point ; the posterior
basal pinnules are scarcely larger than the anterior ones of the same pinna. The late summer and
autumnal fronds have broader and larger pinnules,

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a flexuous midvein, which throws off а vein into each lobe;
these veins bear several cenules, which are either simple or forked, and are directed one towards
cach tooth, terminating within the margin in a somewhat thickened point. Usually only the anterior
basal venule of cach fasciele bears a sorus, but occasionally on the lowest pinnules the posterior basal
venule also is fertile. ‘The veins are conspicuously depressed on the upper surface.

Fructification on the back of the fronds, usually confined to the upper half, but sometimes
extending lower down. Sor! numerous, round, indusiato, medial on the anterior basal venules,
in а row on each side of and nearer to the midrib than the margin, except in the most luxuriant
pinnules, where the development of sori on the posterior venules produces a more irregular arrange:
ment. Indusium membrannecous, reniform, flat, with a жаху, somewhat irregular margin, but
without glands, affixed by a deep basal sinus. Spore-cases numerous, dark brown, roundish,
Spores oblong, murieulate

Duration, Тһе caudex is perennial, "The fronds are annual, the earliest produced in May, succeeded
by others during the summer, all destroyed by the autumnal frosts, or eventually porishing if not

Zastrea cristata, with the plants called uliginosa and spinudosa, form a group, distinguishable
by habit and other characters from the allied diatata group, with which, however, the more highly
ped form, spinulosa, is sometimes associated by botanists of high authority ; in consequence, no
plants having been studied in the herbarium, where their differences become less marked,

rather than in a state of growth, in which the most important characters are obvious. Of this group

L. eristata is the least developed form, We have in the Handbook of British Ferns (все p. 114)

THE CRESTED BUCKLER FERN.

(rented all three as forms of one species ; and that they have a close natural afinity which separates
them from the forms of Z, dilatata, we have no doubt whatever, howover similar to the latter, in some
gases, may be the degreo and mode of division in the fronds, Their affinity is evidenced by marks far
more important than those to bo derived from such inconstant characters as are the outline or division
of the fronds: namely, by the ereeping caudex, by the sparso and pallid broad appressed scales, and

by the cred narrow fronds, and entire indusia, in all which they agree. In these points they

differ more or less obviously, and in the ease of the first-namell absolutely, from the dilatata group.

Without at all disturbing the conviction which led us to regard these plants as varictios of ono species,

Ne however propose here, in deference to the more commonly received opinion, to treat of Z, spinulova
separately.

The Lastroa uliginosa of Newman (Prare XX.) wo must still regard as a variety of 2. crista,
tho only marked difference, in truth, being that its earlier fertile fronds have the pinnules more
acute, and more conspicuously lobed and toothed, and that the diserepancy in size between the anterior
and posterior basal pinnules is a degree more manifest. Tt has а stout decumbent caudox, and erect
linear-lanccolate fronds, two to four fect high, and bipinnate at the base of the pinmo. Three kinds of
fronds are borne by the plants, but they are not all simultancous in their appearance, nor constantly
produced; and though different they are not strikingly dissimilar, like the barren and fertile ronds of
some other Ferns, ‘The early fronds of the stronger crowns aro fertile, and with them sometimes but
not always appear others which are smaller and barren, the latter often produced from small lateral
crowns, but also sometimes from the same crown which produces the fertile ones; whilst later in the
season other fronds with broader and blunter pinnules aro borne, these being sometimes fertile,
sometimes barren. Thus the early barren fronds are small, spreading, pinnate, with decurrent oblong
obtuse pinnules, and resemble small barren fronds of cristata, ‘The summer fronds are also erbtata-like,
large, with decurzent oblong obtuse pinnules, and very frequently fertile. ‘The fertile fronds produced
in spring are moro like spínuloya ; they grow quite ereet, and are linear-lancoolate, bipinnate, the basal
pinnules distinct, all the pinnae stalked, and set on so that their upper surface is turned towards the
point of the frond. The ріш are elongate triangular, the lower ones being shorter, broader, and more
oblique, the fist posterior pinnule being an inch, the anterior one three-fourths of an inch long. "Ihe
basal pinnules of the middle pinnas are distinet, oblong, acute, pinnatifdly lobed, the lobes sharply
serrate with longish spinulose or aristate teeth ; the upper pinnules are adnate and sharply and deeply
serrate. The fructifcation extends over the whole frond, but is most copious towards tho top, where it
forms two lines near the midrib on the smaller pinnules, being confined to the anterior basal venules
Whilst it becomes confused on the larger pinnules in eonsequeneo of being produced in two series on the
lobes, both anterior and posterior venules being there fertile. ‘The caudex branches sparingly. The
fronds are said to appear several days earlier than those of Z. erisata, but our cultivated plants have
never shown any regularity in this respect, some plants preceding, others following Za cristata, although
alleircumstanced alike, Wo consider this plant more closely allied to Za cristata than to Za spinovuda,
because its vernation agrees more exactly with the former, and. because neither its early barren fronds
nor its Inter fertile ones can be cortainly distinguished from analogous fronds of Z. erisata, whilst on
the other hand, no such eristataliko fronds are produced by Z. spinulosa, "Tho special attention of
English botanists was drawn to this plant by Mr. John Lloyd, a fov years since ; and our figure is
taken from a plant brought by him from Oxton bog, Nottinghamshire.

Both these Ferns grow readily in peaty soil, with abundant moisture; and though not remarkable
for elegance, they are yet useful in grouping on account of their upright habit of growth. They are
increased with tolerable facility by the separation of the lateral erowns when produced.

The species and variety produce occasional multifid variations, In both the variation consists
mostly in the division of the apices of the pinnae, rather than that of the apex of the frond, which is

rarely affected, ‘They however do not rank as permanent varieties

һа.

spinulo

N SQ,

Lastrea

v
қ
ы,

оа

Pıarz XXI.

THE NARROW PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

(LASTREA sPINULOSM.

LASTREA, Pres.

their extremities.

L. semurosn.

with the fro

1 of the enl

THE NARROW PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN.

h many bee or less appressed ; the scales aro most numerons near the base
Rachis stoutish, channelled in front, scarcely at all sealy, pale green, smooth

Vernation eireinate; sometimes in this plant the rachis is simply circinate, but in other ca
besides the ordinary involution, there is also a lateral curvature; the pinnae and pinnules are all
separately involute.

Frond from two to four or five feet in height, егесі, herbaceous, yellowish green, ong
lanceolate tapering at the apex, bipinnate, Pine numerous, opposite or subopposite below, often
becoming more alternate above; the lower ones distant, obliquely triangular, from the greater size of
the posterior basal pinnules, measuring (in average specimens, two fect or upwards in height) about four
inches in length, and three inches across the base, of which latter the posterior pinnules measure nearly
two inches ; the upper ones are less distant and narrower, of an elongate triangular outline, those just
above the middle, measuring four and a half inches long, and barely two inches broad at the base
where the posterior and anterior pinnules are of nearly equal size, The pinnw are stalked, frequently
more or less drooping, and often twisted so as to turn their upper surface towards the apex of the
frond, but this peculiarity is less marked than in the allied Z, cristata and its variety. Pinnudes oblong
acute, broadest at the base, the lower ones with a short stalk-like attachment, the upper more or less
adnate; the basal pinnules (of the pinum half-way up the fertile fronds) pinnatifid almost to the
midrib, with oblong acute lobes, the lobes strongly serrated, with spinulose teeth, whose points are
directed towards the apex of the lobo, and often curved upwards above the plane of the surface of the
obe; the upper pinnules are either inciso-lobate with spinulosely serrate lobes, or coarsely serrate with
spinuloso teeth. "The barren fronds usually, and some of the fertile ones, are broader and more lax in
habit than those above described, and sometimes entire plants assume this character

Vonation of the pinnules (the basal ones of fertile pinnw near the centre of the frond) consisting of
‘a stout midvein, from which a primary vein extends into each lobe, where it forms a flexuous secondary
midyein, bearing alternate forked venules, on the short anterior fork of which, nearly at its point, and
standing just beneath the sinus of the serraturo, the sorus is placed, the sori then forming two rows
along the lobes of the pinnules. In the less divided pinnulos at the middle of the pinne the primary.
midvein produces branched reins, and the anterior basal venado also in this case bears the sorus, near
to its termination, so that the sori then form two lines along the pinnule itself. This latter being the
structure of the greater number of pinnules, the general aspect of the fructification is to form two lines
lengthwise on the pinnule. The venules are direeted one towards each serrature, but terminate before
reaching it, in a thickened point.

Fractificati on the back of the frond, usually oceurring on the upper half, but sometimes extendi
over the whole surface. Sort numerous, round, indusiate, medial, or subterminal on the anterior ba:
venules, (or on several venules in the deeply pinnatifid basal pinnules) forming a line on each side the
midvein ; usually distinet, but often erowded. Zndusium flat, veniform, membranous, persistent, with
an entire margin, wavy or with angular projections, but without glands. Spore-cases brown, numerous,
rotundate, Spores oblong, muriculate

Duration, Tho caudex is perennial, ‘The fronds are annual, the first growth appearing early in May,
and others growing up at intervals through the summer; they perish in autumn when exposed, but
under shelter, though decaying near the base of the stipes so as to be unable to stand егесі, they
nevertheless retain much of their freshness through the winter; and the extreme base of the stipes

continues fresh for many years

‘This plant is known from Z. dilatata, by its ereeping eaudex, by the few broad pallid scales of its

stipes, and by the absence of glands from the margin of its indusium. The connecting link between it

and Р. dilatata is the Г. glandulosa of Newman, which latter, as far as our knowledge of it extends,

has neither the ereeping caudex nor the entire indusium of Z. spinulosa, and differs also in the

THE NARROW PRICKLY-TOOTH UCKLER FERN

abundant glands which cover it, though this latter is a character of comparatively little value, fo
common forms of Za dilatata, in no other respect distinguishable, are found both covered with and fre
from glands. Z. spinulosa is less easily distinguished by the precise and important characters afforded
hy the caudex, the scales, and the indusia, from Za eristata ; though perhaps more readily separated
by the eye from that, than from imperfect specimens of Z dilatata, with which, in some of its forms,
it agrees in the variable, and therefore less important character of the subdivision of its pars. From

cristata itself, J. spinulosa may bo known, by the short triangular, and loss divided pine of the

former, and by their blunter, less deeply toothed pinnules ; but from the variety uZíginosa it is in some

of its states much less easily known, the greater inequality of the pinnules on its lower рїш being

almost the only difference, if we except the eritata-like fronds of wlizinosa—and the latter are not always
present, Indeed so closely do these merge into each other by means of transition forms of frond, that
же are forced to the conclusion that they aro all three in reality mere variations from one specific type.

‘There are two versions of the specific namo of this plant in uso among British botanists—apinosa
and spinudosa. We advisedly use the latter. Tho former has been revived hy recent authors, on the
grounds that Roth who employed it in Flora Germanic (1800), was the first to correctly define the plant
from its ally Z. didatata, and that Müller in the Flora атаса has “misprinted” spinulasa for Weiss
namo of spinosa, and under it figured the plant we now call Z. cristata, Weiss’ name Polypodium
Füiz,famina var. spinova, as that of a variety merely, and altogether so incorrect, has no claim to notice
Müller describes, but without name, and very well figures, two pine of Za spinulosa in the Flora
Pridrichsdalina (1767), and his later figure in Flora Danica (1777), whore he names it Polypodium
spinulomem, is an exact representation of our Z. spinutosa, and not of 2. cristata. We therefore
can neither subscribe to the assumption that Müllers name is a misprint, nor can we allow the
claim made on behalf of Weiss name; while Müller has by many years the precedence over Roth.
Equally, as we believe, are those writers in error, who deny that this plant is the Lastroa spinulosa of
Pres. Aspidim spinudosum as defined by Swarts in’his Synopsis Fiticwm (p. 420) is the plant of
Müllers figures ; and Swartz moreover quotes Schkubr’s t 48, which admirably depicts Z. spínulosa,
excepting in the detached figures of indusia, d and e, these latter being evidently erroneous, for
glandular indusia have, we believe, never been found on the true apinulosa, which the figure otherwise so
perfectly represents, that it must be Z. spinudosa and cannot be 2. dilatata. Swartzs plant, therefore,
we maintain, is Z. spinılosa (our Parm. XXI), not Z. dilatata, and Press is simply Swartzs with
anew generie name. We thus arrive at the conclusion, that our English plant, the most divided of
the three forms we refer to Za cristata, is the Za spinudosa of Pres), tho Aspidium spinulosum of
Swartz, and the Polypodiun spinulosum of Müller, and we reject the far loss appropriate name of
spinosa, for which thoro is no admissible authority antecedent to that of Roth—nor even subsequent,
for it has been all but universally rejected since his day

‘The cultivation of this Forn accords precisely with that of Z. eristata, and uliyinosa ; and though,
like them, not ranking among the most graceful оГ our large-growing Ferns, it has like them a certain
degreo of character, and is not inclegant

Mr. Wollaston notices two variations of this plant: 1, molti, in which the fronds are occasionally
simply forked at the apex ; it is not permanent under cultivation. 2. Zaciniata у in which the fronds

je

к
Si, &
Mint) tie oe ы
SE" EQ
AC SS
ul

а.

а!

Lastrea dilatata

А

wi

NP)

XM Sl
VS US LY,
тет?) А.

Lastrea dilatata glandulosa ,

Y Ye

ОЁ,

FUP, PRINT Lastrea dilatata: Chanteriie.

Lastrea dilatata dumelorum.

N

“- 5 5;

C.D, L.dilatata nana.

a collina;

dilatat

A.B. Lastrea

PRINTING,

ЕК

АЛТ!

Prares XXII. XXIII. XXIV. XXV. XXVI.

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

(LASTREA DILATATA).

LASTREA, Presl.
Clusters of Spore-cases circular, medial or s

bterminal on the venule
indusium, or membranous seale

covered by an
Indusium roniform, ќе, more or less regularly
rotundate with a posterior noteh ; att

becoming free
their extremities,

ied by the sinus or notch, the margin
Veins simple, forked, or pinnate; venules direct, disunited at

L. элатат: fronds ovate, sub-triangular, or oblong-lanccolate, bipinnato, with the
pinnules pinnate or pinnatifid, spinosely mucronato-serrate ; scales of the stipes

numerous, lanecolate, entire or fimbriate, usually dark-centred ; indusium fringed
with stalked

ноним: fronds ample, ovate, bi-tripinnate; scales of the stipes stro
two-coloured, entire

Var. taxacerorza: fronds ample, triangular or sub-triangular, tripinnate; pinnules
oblong, the pinnulets ovate-oblong, bluntish with coarse teeth at the

ex;
indusia small, the ma

in irregular, slightly glandular; scales of the stipes
dark-contred,

Var. xaxa; f dwarf, bipinnate, ovate, somewhat glandular while fresh; pinnules

decurrent, connected by a wing, convex, mueronately-toothe

indusia small evanescent delicate, at length concealed by the spore
cases, the margin slightly glandular ; seales of the stipes dark-contred,

Var, DUMETORX: fronds dwarf or dwarfish, obl

te, or triangular-ovate, bipinnate,
the stipes, rachides,

nd under surface of veins clothed with glands ; pinnules

convex ol sori large scattered, with gland-fringed indusia; scales of the

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER F

stipes broad-lanecolato, pale brown, indistinetly two-coloured, fimbriate at tho

cotta: fronds narrow-clongate-ovate or ovate-lanceolato, bipinnate, somewhat

glandular; pin distant; pinnules convex, oblong or ovate-oblong, obtuse

the basal ones pinnatifid the lobes very obtuse, serrated towards their apices with
coarse acuminate teeth; sori covered by gland-fringed indusia
stipes dark-eentred, few except at the
tho upper ones often broader

; scalos of the
base, where they are subulately tipped,

Таза эпт & сошыза, Mere, Шой of РАНА Fea, 1 (азай). Dalian Monel Deli
Ieee en: ^ [
ria Iria i M4 (а рил).

тд; Dain т

Cuayrenta: fronds lanceolate, narrowed and truneate below, eaudatclj elongated at
the apex, glandular on the stipes, rachis, and under surface ; pinna distant, tho.
lowest unequally deltoid, the rest nearly equal ; pinnules oblong, very: obtuse,
distant, somewhat convex, deeply pinnatifid, the lobes having coarse aristate
teeth; sori biscrial on all the smaller pinnules, and on the lobes of the larger

Ones; indusia margined with small stalked glands; scales of the stipes

lanceolate-aristate, entire, with a dark-brown central stripe, spreading.

awavera: fronds lincar-lanccolate bipinnate; pinne short deltoid, the anterior
amd posterior pinnules of the lower pinnw very unequal; scales of the stipes
narrow-lanceolate, pale-brown, two-coloured ; sori

covered by indistinctly
glandular indusia

тата ашылым, e aroera, Mor ondo лей Firms, 12
aza: fronds narrow linear-lanecolate, membranaceous, bi-subtripinnate ; pinnae
unequally deltoid ; scales of the stipes bread-lanecolate,

two-coloured; sori large, numerous, with small eva

pale-brown, variously
nescent ragged glandular

^. GLANDULOSA: fronds ample, lanceolate-ovate, or oblong-lanecolate, tripinnate below,
densely covered with stalked glands beneath, as well as on the stipes and
rachis; scales of the stipes palo whole-coloured, or faintly two-coloured, broadly
Tanceolate-ovate, semi-appressed.

Xir f iti ene V

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN.

Carder stout, usually егесі, rarely dexumbent, not erecping, often becoming elongated, and trunk-
ike, sometimes tufted, the crown densely sealy; the fronds arranged in а cirelet around the crown,
when the caudex is erect. Seales lanccolate-subulate, hair-pointed, brown, with a dark centre and
paler margins. Filres dark-brown, numerous, coarse, branched, toment

Stipes terminal, and adherent to the caudex, variable in length, usually from about one-third to
one-half the entire length of the frond, stout at the base, green, densely scaly the scales spreading,
most numerous at the baso, but usually abundant throughout the whole length of the stipes, and in the
normal plant lanceolate-attennate, and dark-centred like those of the crown, frequently almost black ;
rachis convex behind, channelled in front, smooth, or in some plants otherwise normal, clothed with
lands; somewhat sealy, especially at the back, with small subulate more or less distinetly two-
coloured scales,

Vernation circinate, the rachis often folded laterally as well as involutely fore and aft, the apex being
simply eireinate

Frond averaging two to three feet, but (exclusive of the varieties noticed below) varying from about a
foot to five or six feet in length, and from six to sixteen inches in breadth, herbaceous, dark-green
above, paler beneath, spreading and more or less arched or drooping, ovate or ovate-lanecolate in the
typical form, bipinnate or tripinnate. Pinna numerous opposite or sub-opposite, the pairs moro distant.
below. The lowest pair are obliquely-triangular elongate, the posterior pinnules being much larger than,
often twice as large as, the anterior ones; the pinne of a few of the succeeding pairs havo also an
obliquely-eltoid outline, which gradually disappears towards tho upper part of the frond, so that
of about the third or the fourth pair, and those above them, are nearly equal-sided ; the upper
are also narrower, tapering very gradually from the baso to th Pinuules ovate-oblon;
often convex, the basal ones stalked, the upper sessile and decurrent ; the lower ones (especially those
of the lowest pinna) are very deeply pinnatifid, sometimes pinnate, and the lobos or pinnulets aro
oblong and bluntish in outline, AN the divisions aro sharply-toothed, with teeth of sub-ovate form,
terminating in a bristle-ike point or muero, which is in general curved laterally towards the apex

of the pinnule or lobe

Vena the pinnulets of the lower pinnae, consisting of a stout flexuous vein, proceeding from

the rachis-like vein of the primary pinnule, forming a midvein, from which a есінде proceeds into each
marginal lobe, and this is forked where the lobe is toothed, so as to give off a branch towards euch
tooth, the anterior branch being fertile at some distaneo below its apex.

divided primary pinnules, the same arrangement occurs on а reduced scale, the midvein producing a

each lobe, and this again a rende for each tooth, the lowest anterior venule only being fertile

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN.

‘Tho same, still more simplified, occurs in tho smaller primary pinnulos. ‘The venules all terminate in a
small club-shaped apex, below the tooth towards which they are directed.

Fructifcation on the back of the frond, and occupying the whole under surface. Sori numerous,
variable in size, distinct, round, indusiate ; medial, sub-terminal or terminal, seated on the anterior basal
venules in the less divided pinnules, and on the lowest anterior branch of the venules in the more
compound pinnules ; in the former consequently ranging in two lines, ono on each side the midvein,
and much nearer to it than tho margin; in the latter forming two lines in a similar way along
the lobes.

Indusium veniform, rather large, convex, membranous, fringed around the margin with stalked

glands; or sometimes, small, flat, and indistinctly glandular, Spore-cases numerous, brown, rotundly

obovate, Spores roundish or oblong, angular, murienlate
Duration. The caudex is perennial. Tho fronds are semi-persistent, continuing, under shelter,
through the winter, though decaying at the base of the stipes. The young fronds are produced in

spring, and additional ones uncertainly during the summer:

This is a most variable species, extremely diffieult to understand. Tt is more or less intimately
united with two or three kindred species, by means of transition forms, the kindred British plants
being Z. fanisveit on the one hand, and that known as Za spínulosa, on the other, The latter is
distinguished by its ereeping eaudex, the few broad pallid seales of its stipes, and its entire indusium ;

the former by its more strictly evergreen habit, by its lacerated scales, its anthoxanthoid fragrance,

d
by the absence of stalked glands from the margin of its indusium. Z. fenisreii may also be known
by the concavity of its pinnw and pinnules; and even in the decay of its fronds it is peculiar, for
whilst Z. spinudosa and 2. dilatata decay first near the base of the stipes, so that the fronds
fall, while they appear green and fresh upwards, in Za feniseeit the stipes continues firm, while
the apex of the frond is undergoing decay, the disorganisation in this case going on from above
downwards, and not from below upwards, The marks of Z. dilatata, in the group of which its
variations form so largo a proportion, aro, its Janceolato entire dark-eentred scales, and its
gland-fringed indusia.

‘The Tansy-leaved Priekly-toothed Buckler Fom—L. ошататА rAXAGErIPOLIA- Ís a tripinnato state
of the species, with broad fronds indicating a tendeney towards a triangular outline, which is sometimes
strongly marked. The fronds aro usually largo, though there occur plants of but moderate size, in
which the peculiarities of the form are fully developed. ‘The stipes has the usual entire lanceolate
dark-brown abundant scales, marked with a still darker bar down their centre. It is one of the
commoner forms of the species, and a variable form, merging gradually into that which we have
considered as the type of the species, We are indebted to Professor Fée of Strasburg for a specimen of
the Polystichum tanacetifolium of De Candolle, which has enabled us to identify it with this form of
г. ditatata.

Mr. Tatham’s, or the Dwarf Prickly-toothed Buckler Fern—L. parara xaxa—(Prare XXVI, ep)
differs most obviously from the usual and commoner forms of the species, in its constantly smaller size
the extreme length of the fronds, including the stipes, varying from two to four inches in the smalles
forms, to eight or ten inches in the largest forms of the variety. ‘This diminutive size is a permanent
characteristic, the variety having been observed by Mr. J. Tatham to grow near Settle, in Yorkshire, for
the last twenty years without change, and in company with the ordinary forms of the species three foot
in height ; and the Rev. J. М. Chanter has observed the same fact of constancy for a series of years in
plants of this variety which occur near Ilfracombe, in Devonshire. Even when freely manured,
Mr. Tatham's plant, though growing about fifteen inches high, does not lose the dwarfish aspect of the
natural specimens ; and cultivation in a greenhouse does not add to the size of the Devonshire plants,

‘The latter assume some slight varia themselves, ‘The fronds (of the Settle plants) are of

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER Fl

an ovate outline broadest at the base, the stipes forming nearly half the entire height. Both the stipes

and rachis, as well as the under sido of the veins, aro sparingly elothed with short-stalked glands. Т

stipes is clothed thickly at the baso, more sparingly upwards, with lanceolate scales having the usual
k central mark. ‘The lowest pinnae are unequal-sided, but the rest are nearly equal. The fronds are

bipinnate, but the pinnules are decurrent, more or less convex, the larger ones somewhat lobed, with

serrated lobes, the rest merely serrate with spinulose teeth. ‘The sori aro most copious in the upper part

of the frond, and form a line on cach side the midvein of the pinmules nearer the rib than the margin ;
they are rather small, formed of roundish obova ases, which are almost black when fresh, and.
are covered by a small, delicate, somewhat glandular-margined indusium, which soon shrivels and.
becomes concealed among the spore-cases,

Miss Beevers, or the Thicket Priekly-toothed Buckler Fern—L. pmaTATA puaetonoa—(Puare
XXV.) is a dwarf or dwartish form, with broad ovate, or clongate-triangular, or sometimes, deltoid fronds,
remarkable for their glandular surface, and their largo abundant sori produced freely on plants of very
immature age. This form of the plant, which appears to us entitled to specific distinction, occurs under
several modifications, some of which have been referred to the var. colina, with which, however, they
do not agree. Of these modifications, ono discovered in the Lake district by Miss Beever, to whom we
are indebted for specimens and plants, is the most marked with which we are acquainted, and like the
rest, sufficiently accords with the imperfect specimens of Sir J. E. Smith's Aspidium dumetorum, to be
found in his herbarium. "his plant has clongate-triangular-ovate fronds growing about а foot high,
and very glandular, especially on the stipes, rachis, and lower surface of the veins ; they are bipinnate
the pinna concave and bluntish ; the pinnules broad oblong, or oblong-ovate, convex, crispy, and
coarsely toothed, the teeth broad and acuminately tipped by a small bristle. The stipes is sparingly
clothed with lanecolato scalos of variable width, and of a pale-brown colour, scarcely at all darker in
the centre, and having their margin fimbriate, ‘The sori are large, distinet, produced over the whole
under surface, and covered by indusia, which are prominently fringed with stalked glands, Young
plants of this form, but a few months old, and three or four inches high, bear fronds which are
abundantly fertile. With this we associate tho following, which agree in the pale-coloured, broad
Ianee-shaped, sparingly fimbriated scales of the stipes and crown, in the dwarf habit, the subtriangular
yr ovate fronds, in the glandulose surface, and the large distinct sori:—(1) а Fern found at Festiniog
by Dr. Allebin, somewhat larger in growth under cultivation, less concave in the pinnae, and therefore
Tess erispy-looking ; (2) another similar, from the hills above Rhayader, found by Mr. J. R. Cobb
(3) Dr. Deakin's Z. maculata, found on Goatfell, Arran, whieh is also a dwarf glandular form of the species,
with a more ovate outline of frond ; (4) a similar plant, which we gathered at Tarbet, in Glen Cros,
and om the coast of Arran; (5) a form having the same general characteristics, found by the
Rev. J. M. Chanter, in the vicinity of Ilfracombe in Devonshire ; and (0) a similar form found in the
Isle of Man, by Dr. Allchin. These all differ from that first deseribed in little but the absence of the
crispy aspect of the pinnules, which has been already mentioned ; and do not differ among themselves
more than the forms of many other Ferns,

Mr. Pinder's, or the Hill Prickly-toothed Buckler Fern—Lasrnza prTATA conutsa—(Puare XXVI.
Am) was first brought into notice by the Rey. б. Pinder, to whom we are indebted for specimens and
much information concorni Tt is a remarkably neat-looking form of the species, having sometimes
an ovate outline of frond, attenuately elongated at tho apex, but also occurring in a more elongated
e. an oblong-lanceolate or ovate-lanecolate form. "he fronds are dark-green, one to two feet high,
smooth or sparingly glandular, bipinnate. ‘The stipes is variable in length, both in wild specimens,
some of which are found beneath. masses of rock, and under eultivation ; from one-half to one-third
the length of the fronds, green above, tinged with dark purple-brown at the base, sealy, with entire
lanceolate dark-brown scales, which have a conspicuous darker central mark; the scales at the base

of the stipes, where they are most numerous, are narrow, and have a long subulate point ; hi

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

they are scattered, and many of thom broader and shorter ; and the rachis itself is almost devoid of

scales. ‘The pinnw, expecially the lower ones, are distant and spreading: the first pair unequally

deltoid; the next more elongate and less unequal ; the remainder narrower, parallel-sided, rounding

slightly near the end to an acutish, not at all acuminate, point. The pinnules aro convex; obtusely
oblong-ovate, the basal ones narrowed to a broadish stalk-like attachment, the rest sossile and more
or less decurrent ; the larger pinnules are deeply pinnatifid with blunt oblong lobes, sparingly toothed,
mostly at the apex, with coarse acuminately aristate teeth. ‘The sori are for the most part arranged
in two lines along the pinnules, as in tho smaller forms of the species, and they aro covered hy
gland-fringed indusia. The plants from Torver, near Conistone, communicated by Miss 8, Beever
havo prettily concave pinnw, and strongly convex pinnules ; they are also somewhat glandular, which
is hardly, if at all, the caso with the plant sont by Mr. Pinder.

Mrs. Chanter’s Prickly-toothed Buckler Forn—L, ошатата Силхткшг—(Рилтк XXIV.) is а re-
markably distinet form of the species, differing obviously in the narrowed form and attenuated apex of its
fronds, its distant pinnis, and its distinet blunt pinnules. It is of medium size, growing from a foot.
and a half to two fect in height, the fronds growing nearly erect, and being of a lanceolate or oblong-
lanceolate form, with the base somewhat narrowed, and the apex attenuated. "The stipes, rachis, and
under surface of the fronds are clothed with sessilo or very shortly-stalked glands, Tho stipes is
clothed rather plentifully with lanceolate and ovate-lanceolate entire scales, which are of various sizes,
brown, with a dark central streak, and tipped by a longish, weak, bristle point. The fronds
bipinnato ; the pinnev distant, somewhat spreading, and moro or less twisted, so that the upper surface
is directed towards the zenith ; the lowermost pair aro very unequally deltoid, their posterior Ds
pinnules being more than twice the le terior ones, and these posterior pinnules are almost
themselves pinnate ; the next pair is unequally deltoid, but the posterior pinnule is only about
‘one-third longer than the anterior ; the inequality is nearly lost in the next and the sueveeding pinnas
which narrow gradually to the apex. "he basal pinnules of these upper pinnw are nearly oblong, their
base being but little broader than their apex, which is very blunt; they have a narrow stalk-like
attachment, which becomes broader and decurrent in the pinnules higher up the pinna. The pinnules
are more or less deeply pinnatifid according to their position on the pinnas, and the lobes, which are
bluntly oblong, have a few coarse distinct teeth, each of which is terminated by a bristlelike point
‘The sori, which form a line on each side near the midrib of the smaller pinnules, and a double line
along the lobes of the larger ones, are covered by reniform indusia, which are fringed with small stalked
glands at the margin, This very marked variety was discovered in 1854, by the Rev. J. М. Chanter
and Mrs. Chanter, after whom it has been named, at Hartland, on the north coast of Devon, where it
was found growing in moderate quantity within a limited area, and accompanied and surrounded by
other common forms of the species. We aro indebted to Mr. Chanter for the specimen figured, and
for living plants collected during the present year, from which latter our description has been prepared.

The Linear Prickly-toothed Buckler Fern—L. parara axousta—is a variety having the outline
and general features of the erect typical form of Z. spinosa, but possessing also the particular
characteristics of Г. dilatata. Tt has narrow lincar-lanceolate bipinnate fronds, about two feet high ; the
stipes moderately furnished with large attenuately lance-shaped pale-brown dark-centred scales ; the
pinna» shortly deltoid, and the lower two or three pairs very unequally so, the posterior pinnules being
much the largest; the pinnules narrow, oblong, obtuse, deeply pinnatifid with ovate or oblong lobes,
having aristate teeth, The sori are small, abundant, occurring from the base to the apex of the frond,
and covered by small indistinctly glandular convex indusia

The Alpine Prickly-toothed Buckler Fem—L. pmatara aurma—has fronds of the outline of
ordinary states of L. spinulosa that is, straight-sided, broadly linear, scareely lanceolate ; they are almost
tripinnate below, bipinnate upwards ; the pinna anccolate, or ovate, ascending, membranous in

texture, and bearing two rows of large prominent sori, of which the covers, which are very evanescent

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

avo small, and somewhat glandular on tho margin ; the teeth of the pinnules are mucronately tipped

The scales are broad lance-shnped, palish brown, with a dark central mark. This form осешв pl

tifally among rocks on tho higher parts of Ben Lawers, Perthshire

The Glandular Prickly-toothed Buckler Fern—L, pinarara auaxpuioss—(Puate ХХИ)
and somewhat erect growing plant, with much the aspect of a large broad Z. spinulosa, but
from that in the intermediate form of the scales of the stipes, in their frequently being two-coloured, in
the glandular-fringed indusia, and in the suberect, not creeping eaudex. The fronds grow from a foot
and a half to three or four fect high, and are of an oblong-lanceolato figure in the larger plants, or
ovate-lanecolate in the smaller ones, growing nearly erect around the stout pale-coloured crown which
terminates the thick ascending tufted caudex. ‘They aro bipinnate above, tipinnate below ; the pinnae
ascending and twisted, so as to form nearly a horizontal plane, lanceolate-ovate, the longest nearly six
inches long, and about two inches broad just above the baso; pinnules lanceolato-ovate, or pyramidate
ovate, acute, averaging nearly an inch in length over the greater part of the frond, the posterior ones.
‘on the lower ріш longest, those of the lowest pinnz being an inch and three-quarters long ; the lower
ones stalked, the rest successively decurrent, adnate, confluent, "The pinnules are pinnatifd almost
down to the midvein ; their lobes oblong, adnate, incised or toothed, the serratures all tipped by a.
bristle-like point, ‘The stipes varies from about one-third to one-half the entire length of the frond, and
is clothed sparingly upwards, more thickly near the base, with ovate bluntish, and ovate-lanceolate
pointed scales, which aro generally of a pale brown, scarcely tawny, some having and others wanting a
darker central streak, many of them, as seen in the growing plant, becoming a good deal appressed
to the stipes, whilst a few remain spreading but this appears to be far less obvious when dried.
‘The stipes, rachides, and under surface of the fronds, are densely covered with stalked glands, The
fructification is copious over the whole frond, and forms two lines on each of the smaller pinnules,
ог on the lobes of the larger ones ; and the sori aro covered by indusia, which are fringed with stalked
marginal glands, "This Fern was first noticed by Mr. Bennett, of Brockham, and his son, Mr. E, T.
Bennett, near Lydbrook, in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire ; and was subsequently gathered at the
same place by Mr. W. Н. Purchas, of Ross, It has since been found in Epping Forest, in Es
by Mr. Н. Doubleday. We are indebted to these gentlemen for both specimens and living plants,
Mr. SF. Gray has communicated (1) а frond much smaller, with paler scales, and less pyramidate
pinnules, but glandular, and perhaps reforrible to this form of the species, which had been gathered
near Croydon, Surrey, by Mr. J. Hutcheson ; and (2) another glandular Fern, gathered by himself at
Barnes, Surrey, where we have also found it sparingly. The latter is certainly not identical with
the Dean Forest and Epping plants, but approaches them closely in some respects, differing chiefly in
its laxer habit, and loss elongated fronds, and in the presence of moro numerous long pointed lanceolate
and dark-centred scales among the broader ones on the stipes, We have gathered another glandular
Fern at Hampstead, Middlesex, somewhat different, especially in the seales, which are long and very
narrow, and in the more obtuscly ovate form of the pinnules, This latter, with that from Barnes,
supplies the connecting links between glandulosa and dilatata ; the most ordinary looking forms of.

the latter being moreover sometimes quite glandular

Besides the varieties already mentioned, which we consider the most distinct and important, there
are many other, indeed almost endless, modifications of this Fern, many of which, however, we believe
to be permanent forms, although they have not all been proved by cultivation, The following is a brief
summary of the various forms which have come under our observation

1. multifida (УУ). Mr. Wollaston describes this as having tho rachis divided very low down, so that,
in fact, two fronds are, as it were, borne on one stipes. Tt is, however, rarely that more than one or two
fronds on a plant aro affected, and the variation is not constant

2, tunacetifolia (М). A common broad tripinnate, triangular or sub-triangular, usually large

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

growing, form of the species of which the lax state is remarkably elegant. ‘The form here intended has

the usual dark-contred scales,

3, pumila (М). A small subdoltoid or ovate-deltoid bipinnate variation, in which the scales are

pallid. We have gathered it at Hampstead, Middlesex, and Tarbet, Dumbartonshire. Tt is the form
referred to as dumetorum in tho Hand-book of British Ferns, where it was mistaken for Sir J. E. Smith's
species. There occurs also a form similar to this in appearance, except that the scales are more
strongly two-coloured. We have seen this latter from Aber, Carnarvonshire ; Rothesay, Bute ; and the
mountains of Dublin and Wicklow

4. deltvidoa (ML). This is a Devonshire plant, collected by the Rev. J. M. Chanter, Tt grows about
tivo fect high, and has deltoid tripinnate fincly-eut fronds, the stipes slender, and the whole aspect of
the plant light and elegant. "The scales are dark-eoloure

5. fuscipes (М). A glandular form of very clegant appearanes, growing two foot high, the frond:
nearly as brond as long (one foot high, and ten and a half inches wide), tripinnate, the points of the
frond and pinnze caudate, The stipes, which is comparatively slender, and has dark narrow scales, is of
a pale chestnut brown behind. It was obtained in Guernsey by Mr. б. Wolsey, the fortunate diseoverer
in that island of Ophiagloesum Insitanieum

6. mieromera (ML), The peculiarity of this form, which has a stout stipes clothed with largo very
dark scales, and is of the normal ovate-lanceolate outline, and about two fect high, is, that it is more
finely divided than usual. ‘Though small in size, i is almost quadripinnate, and and lobes
have sharp narrow teeth, Tt was found in the neighbourhood of Ilfracombe by the Rev. J. M. Chanter:

7. nana (Newm,), The experience of Mr, Tatham and Mr. Chanter proves this to bo a permanent
variety, and not an immature condition of the plant, as might be supposed. It is, as its name implic
a plant of dwarf stature, varying from two or three inches to nearly a foot in height, ‘The fronds aro
ovate, bipinnate, and the stipes is furnished with lanceolate dark-centred scales, "The plants from Settle
and from Ilfracombe are very similar, but from the Intter neighbourhood there are two forms differing,
slightly in the colour of the seales, and in the form and manner of the to of the pinnules; the
warfer plant having the moro pallid scales

8. dumetorum QU). A dwarf plant, with ovate or elongately triangular fronds, clothed beneath and on
the stipes and rachis with glands ; the stipes furnished with pale faintly two-coloured scales, which are
peculiar in being fimbriated sparingly along their margins. The sori are large, scattered, and produced
freely on both young and small-sized plants, The largest plants seldom exceed a foot in height. Some
of the forms have been referred to collina, but it differs from that in its abundant glands, and in its
pallid fimbriated scales, ‘The Arran, Devon, and Isle of Man forms have their scales somewhat less
fimbriated than the others, A small ovate form, agreeing with this in the scales and in the glands,
found in Glen Croe, Argyleshire, is tripinnate at the base, and has the pinnules much smaller than
usual, giving it a somewhat different aspect, and it is probably a permanent departure from this
type of variation

9. collina (Хетта). This is а narrow erect form, from one to two fect high, with the fronds varying
from narrow ovate elongated at the point, so as to become ovato-lanceolate, to narrow oblong-lanecolate
The pinnules are bluntly-oblong, with coarse acuminately-aristate teeth. ‘The scales of the stipes are
Jong, narrow, and strongly two-coloured. Some of the plants we have seen are smooth, others
sparingly glandular, but much Jess во than dumetora. Tt is a very distinet, elegant, and permanent

10. Smithit (ME). A small plant, which, on the authority of Mr. Н. Shepherd, of Liverpool, was sent
him by Dr. Mackay, and is the plant from which Sir J. E. Smith drew up his description of Alspilium.
spinulosum. It is probably the ım Spike Island, near Cove, mentioned in English Flora (v. 279)
‘The fronds are short, the pinnze of the lower half of equal length, and with the tapering apex giving

a narrow clongately subtriangular-ovate outline, ‘The pinnt are opposite, horizontal, distinct, and.

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED DUCKLER FERN

having but slight inequality in the size of the pinnules; these latter are narrowly decurrent on the
rachis, oblong obtuse, with acuminately aristate teeth. The scales are dark, two-coloured, lanceolate

narrower and more elongated. about the base of ‘The plant is related to colina, and is,

perhaps, only а modification of it. ‘The Irish forms of this affnity are little known, and requir

more complete investigation than has hitherto been given to them ; and the sumo remark applies to the
Trish forms related to dumetorum.

11, Chanterie (М). This elegant, variety grows about two feet high, and is of erect habit, with the
рше twisted, so that the upper surface is directed towards the zenith. Tho fronds aro glandular
lanceolate, narrowing. yet terminating abruptly at the base, attenuated and caudate at the apex. The
lower pinna are very unequal-sided ; the next pair or two much less so, and those above nearly or
quite equal. The fronds are glandular ; the stipes abundantly scaly, with lanceolate scales,
dark-brown centre, and terminating in а long weak point. Tho sori are small, numerous, forming. two
lines near the midrib, and covered by gland-ftinged indus. The largest fronds are two feet high,
including a stipes of nine inches ; the lowest pinnw three and a half inches long, and an inch and a
half broad ; the longest, about the centre of the frond, five inches long, and an inch and a quarter
broad. "The pinnules are separated by a space often nearly equal to their own width,

12. distans (М.). This is something like the last, but smooth, more lax in habit, and the fronds also.
appear to attain a larger size. ‘The outline is ovate; the pinnae distant, and the inequality of their sides.
not very apparentexcept in the lowest pair; the pinnules wide apart, ovate oblong obtuse, the narrowed
stall-like base somewhat decurrent, the teeth acuminately-aristate. The sori are numerous, forming
two lines near the midrib, the indusium slightly glandular, Tt was found at Coombe Wood, Surrey, by
Mr. 8. F. Gray,

13, obtusa (ML). This form does not associate with any of the others we have seen. The fronds are in
outline narrow ovate, with oblong obtuse shallow-lobed pinnules ; otherwise normal. We have found
it at Hampstead, Middlesex ; Hastings, Sussex ; Andrishiag, Argyleshire ; and the Rev. J. M. Chanter
has found a similar form near Ifracombe, Devonshire,

14. angusta (М). This has linear fronds about two feet high, with a long stipes, equalling the leafy
part in length. ‘The pinnae are ascending, the three or four lowest pairs very unequal-sided. The
scales are lanceolate and two-coloured, otherwise the fronds have quite the aspect of those of
2. spinulosa, in its extreme typical state. The variety was established (andlook of British Ferns, 124)
on two fronds gathered by the late Miss Bower, near Tunbridge Wells, We have subsequently seen
somewhat similar forms from Glen Croe, Argyleshire, and from Hartland, Devon ; at the latter place
Mrs. Chanter found it in company with Chantoria

15. alpina (М). In this form the fronds have ascending pinnas of which the lowest are but little
shorter than several of the succeeding pairs, so that the outline is narrow, scarcely lance-shaped ; the
lowest pinnae are very unequal-sided, the rest becoming gradually less во. The fronds are often almost
tripinnate at the base, and of a much more delicate texture than any other form we have seen. "The
sori are large and numerous, with small very evanescent indusia, having a ragged glandular margin.
The scales are broad-lanceolate, pale-brown, with a dark central mark varying in intensity. ‘This
variety we gathered on Ben Lawers, Perthshire, and we have seen no other form correspondent with it,
unless a small plant with ovate fronds, found by Dr. Balfour on Ben Voirlich, and which does not
vell associate with any other form, is a small state of the same plant

16, glandulosa (Newm). A large growing erect variety, with fronds of an oblong-anccolate outline,
tripinnate below, the lower pinnas broad and unequally deltoid, the upper lanecolate-ovate ; the
pinnules are pyramidately-ovate acute. ‘The sori, which are copious over the whole frond, are covered
by gland-fringed indusia, ‘The seales of the stipes are ovato-lancoolato acute, pale-brown, unequally
marked with a darker central blotch, less spreading than in other varieties, "hero are two or three

other large-growing glandular forms, which serve to unite this with Z. dilatata, in its ordinary state

THE BROAD PRICKLY-TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN

17. valida (М). A stout, erect, broad, rigidly fleshy-looking form, thick and leathery when dry, the
fronds ovate, the pinnules divided almost to the midrib over the greater part of the fronds. Th
venules terminate in a hair-like white lino near the margin on tho upper surface, and give the plant
a falsely strigoso appearance. Tt has been sont to us by the Rev. J. M. Chanter, from Devonshire; and
by Mr. C, Jackson, from Guernsey

18. Schafieldii (Stansfield). This very diminutive plant was found by a gardoner named Schofield
near Buxton, Derbyshire, a fow years since, and has since retained its peculiarities under cultivation.
It is uncertain whether it should be referred to 2, dilatata or 1. spinulosa, and its tendeney to a
creeping habit of growth, as well as its concolorous scales, rather lead to the inference that it belongs to
the latter ; but it is yot altogether too diminutivo, and too little known to admit of the question being
decided. "Tho fronds rarely attain a length of more than three or four inches, and more generally do
not exceed two ; they aro usually ramose, sometimes not ; often multifid, sometimes not ; and. when

single, they are pinnate, the pinnw oblong and simply notched, The whole plant, which is quite a

curiosity, and as yet a rarity, is somewhat analogous to the var, erispum of Athyrium Рг femina.

In a plant so sportive as Z. dilatata, and so widely and variedly dispersed as to latitude, elevation,
and locality, it is probable there may bo other variations besides those wo have enumerated, sufficiently

different from them to interest those who study the diversities which occur in the forms of plants

ub

Lastrea

жж ON
"SS

Proms XXVII

THE HAY-SCENTED, or CONCAVE — PRICKLY-
TOOTHED BUCKLER FERN (Lasrua ranisrcn),

LASTREA, Presl.
Clusters of Spore-cases cireular, medial or subterminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium, or membranous Indusium veniform, Le, more or less regularly
dato with a posterior notch ; attached by the sinus or noteh, the margin
ш free, Райы simple, forked, or pinnate; venules direct, disunited at

nities

Т, тамшы: fronds triangular or triangular-ovate, tripinnate, spreading ; pinnules
concave ; pinnulets pinnatifid, the mucronately serrate lobes curved upwards
seales of the stipes narrowlanccolate, fimbriate or lacini
indusium margined with minuto sessile glands,

EXPLANATION OF THE

Cauder stout, densely scaly, tufted, erect or sometimes decumbent, formed of the bases of tho
fronds surrounding a woody axis. Sealer narrow-lanecolate, pale ferruginous, concolorous, variously
and sparingly fimbriato or Iacerate on the margin. ires long, stout, wiry, branched, dark brown,
tomentos

‘Stipes usually about half the entire length of the frond, rigid, moderately stout, brownish-purple
from the base upwards, furnished plentifully with subulately-lanceolate fimbriate or Jacerato
scales of a pale rusty-brown colour, Rachis greenish, furnished with fewer and smaller scales, and as
well as the stipes and secondary rachides bearing numerous small sessile spherical glands,

Vernation cireinate

Fronds numerous, from one to two fect high including the stipes, and from about five to eight
inches across, sometimes smaller, of a rich bright green, somewhat paler beneath, drooping, the upper
surface erispy triangular, or elongate-tria sometimes ovate, tripinnate, the lower surface

sprinkled with minute sessile glands; terminal, and adherent to the caudex. Ри opposite or

THE HAY-SCENTED BUCKLER FERN.

ub-opposite, more or less deltoid. The lowest are broadly and unequally so, ti n th
sido being larger than those on the anterior ; they are also usual always, the lo
ucceeding pinne become gradually narrower and less oblique. Pinnules pyramidately-triangular

iquely-oblong, the basal posterior ones of the lowest pinnas much longer than the rest, and

1 into ovate-oblong or oblong pinnulets, the largest of which are deeply pinnatißd into oblon
erated lobes. The basal ріп, pinnules, and pinnulets are all stalked, the upper ones becomin:
in gradation sessile and then decurrent. Tho margins of the pinmules and lobes are mucronately

and these margins are turned upwards from the plane of the spreading or drooping frond,

9 that all the ultimate divisions are concave, and the entire frond has a beautiful crispy appe

which, together with its lively colour and graceful habit, render it one of the most ornamental of the
robust Ferns,

Venation of the pinnulets consisting of a dark-coloured flexuons midvein formed of a branch from
the midvein of the primary pinnule ; this produce eral forked evinlets, the anterior branch
of which bears a sorus below its apex ; all the veinlets terminate within the margin.

Fructifeation on the back of the fond occupying the whole under surface, Sori round, numerous,
indusiate, forming two rows along each of the pinmules and pinnulets, placed near to the midvein, often
becoming confluent. Zndustun reniform, its margin jagged and uneven, and sparingly furnished with

silo glands. Spore-easey numerous, brown, obovate. Spores oblong, often angular, muriculate

Duration. "The caudex is perennial. The fronds of one season's growth also endure until after the
earlier ones of the following year are produced, so that the plant is evergreen, ‘The growth takes place

in succession from the month of May onwards till autumn

‘This beautiful plant is quite distinct both in characters and aspect from Z. dilatata with which it i
sometimes associated. Its fragrance, which is a remarkable characteristic, is powerful, resembling that of
new hay, becoming too, like that, developed by the desiccation of the plant, and retaining its strength fo
a length of time in the dried specimens of the herbarium, ‘The seales of the stipes differ from those of
1. dilatata, both in size, form, and number, being in Z. fenisecit fewer, nartower, and for the most part
either fringed or lacerate at the margin, palo brown, and concolorous. The fronds too are much more
decidedly evergreen than in Z. dilatata or spinulosa ; and have this peculiarity in their decay, observed
by Dr. Allchin, that they commence to decay from the point, and not from the base of the stipes. The
indusium, moreover, is not bordered with stalked glands, In ordinary cases, the triangular outline
and concave crispy surface of the fronds will suffice to distinguish the plant, without recourse to the
more minute characters residing in the scales and indusia ; but it must be remembered that the plant
does vary with moro clongated and ovate fronds, and some forms of Л. dilatata aro decid
triangular in outline

It grows freely in cultivation, planted in a porous soil of loam and peat; and is to bo considered as
‘one of the most ornamental of our native species, ‘The plants may bo multiplied by separating the

=

ES BS; с STEH,

SSS

ies

Y

Oreopteris.

astrea

Рілтв XXVIII.

THE MOUNTAIN BUCKLER FERN (sri Orrorreris).

LASTREA, Pres.
Clusters ef Spore-cases civeular, medial or subterminal on the venules, covered by an
indusium, or membranous scale, | Zndusion reniform, ie
Мей by the sinus or moteh, the margin

rotundate with a posterior notch ; att
becoming free. Veins simple, forked, or pinnate ; ecnules direct, disunited at

their extremities

L. Onzorranss: fronds resinoso-glandular beneath, lanceolate, very much narrowed
below, pinnate; pinnas linear-lanceolate, deeply pinnatifid, the lobes oblong, lat j
sori marginal ; caudex tufted.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

4, decumbent and slowly creeping, formed of the bases of the fronds surronni

Caudez stout, tuf
Fibres stout, brown, branching

Scales pale ferraginous, ovate acuminate

a woody axis, sealy
1 adherent to the caudex; glandular, and covered with ovate and

Stipes short, stout, terminal а

anccolate pale brown membranaceous seales, Ruchis sealy below, the scales becoming finer and more

hair-like upwards ; clothed also abundantly with sessile glands,

Vernation eireinate, the pinna: not folded convolutely
Trond from one to three fect or more in height, the smaller three inches, the larger eight to ten or
leven inches in breadth, ereetish, numerous, terminal, bright green or often yellowish, clothed beneath
able balsamic fragrance ; lan

with а profusion of small sessile resinous glands, which give out an agre

THE MOUNTAIN BUCKLER FERN.
eeolate, much tapered below as well as upwards, pinnate, inne opposite or alternate, numerous ; the
lower ones moro distant, obtusely triangular ; those higher up gradually lengthening till about the

middle of the frond, where they are lincar-lanecolate, or rather broadest at the base tapering to a long

marrow point; the upper ones a shorter, but also narrower ; all aro deeply pinnatifid.
flat, oblong, obtuse, entire, or occasionally erenated, sometimes slightly faleate, the basal on

Venation of the lobes consisting of a us midvein, producing alternate reine, which are
simple or forked ; the renules extend to the margin, and bear the sori near their apices,

Fructification on the back of the fronds, and most abundant on the upper half. Sori modera

^d, circular, produced near the ends of the venules, and forming a submanginal series, often
confluent, sometimes without indusia. Zndusium small, thin, jag; ranesoent, Spore-cases
numerous, brown, obovate, Spores roundish or oblong, muriculate,

Duration. Тһе caudex is perennial. Tho fronds aro only annual, growing up in spring about May.

‘and becoming destroyed by the autumnal frosts,

‘This fragrant Forn may be at once distinguished by its balsamic seent ; by the short lower pinna
Which extend down almost to the caudex of the pinnato-pinnatifid, marginally dot-fruited fronds; and
by the latter growing in tufts, The indusia are very small and evanescent, and are sometimes wanting,
but the species is too closely allied to other genuine Lastreas, 2: noreboracensis for example, to permit o
its separation from the genus on account of this peculiarity. Indeed, such frivolous distinctions are
always to be avoided,

"Though so common a species in somo localities, it is not one which readily submits to cultivation,
and many havo been the failures of those who have attempted its domestication, We aro indebted to
Mr. Wollaston for a suggestion which has enabled us to attain greater success than usual, and which
is quite in accordance with observations subsequently made in its wild localities, Mr. Wollaston's
plan is to pot or plant in pure loam, and to keep this soil wet through the winter, when the plants,

© potted, this being dono by keeping a feeder full of water constantly beneath them. Probably
constant supply from a syphon, allowing the superfluous quantity to overflow, so that there might be
a constant change going on, would bea still better arrangement; it would at least assimilate more
exactly with the constant percolation which must be going on in its native hills. There is no difficulty
in securing a supply of the plants in the localities where it occurs, where young seedling plants aro
most abundant

‘Two curious varieties of this species have been observed, namely :—

1. truncata (W.). This form was found near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, by Mr. Wollaston. Tt is a
curious monstrosity, and proves permanent under cultivation, ‘The apices of the fronds, and with
very few exceptions, those of the pinne also, are abrupt, and the end of the midvein projects nearly
а quarter of an inch beyond the pinnules, giving the plant the appearance of having been eaten off in
a uniform manner by some mollusk. The graceful outline and aspect of the plant are quite destroyed.
In all other respects this variety resembles the normal plant

erispa (М). In this the pinnules are undulated or wavy, so that the frond has a crispy

‘appearance, It was found by Dr. Balfour, on the Clova moun

— «з
RER

SS

— — 9
5222222

ung Lastrea Thelypteris

Рілт XXIX.

THE MARSH, or FEMALE BUCKLER FERN

(Lasrrea THELYPTERIS),

LASTREA, Pr
Clusters of Spore-cases eirenlar, medial or subterm егей by an

indusium, or membranous ог less regularly

becoming free, V
their extremities

Т. Turzveremss: fronds lanceolate with a broad base, pinnate ; pinnae linear-lanceolat
deeply pinnatifd, the lobes oblong, their margins revolute in the fertile fronds
which thus to have more acute contracted lobes ; eaudex erceping.

алет 4. бту, Delany Y ir

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

branched sparingly, producing fronds at intervals, slender, blackish:

Caudex extensively ercepin,
brown, scaly at the growing point, Scales few, pale brown, ovate-lanceolate, Fibres numerous, dark

brown, much branched, smooth or tomentose
‘Stipes as long as or longer than the leafy portion in the fertile fronds, less elongated and slighter
rounded behind, channelled in front, the base ebony-eoloured, pale green upwards,

in the barren ; smooth
Rachis also sm nd channelled in front, the secondary rachides bearing a few small scattered.
scales, and loose spreading deciduous hairs ; the latter also appear here and there on the veins beneath

and along the margins of the lobes

THE MARSH FERN,

Vernation cireinate,
‘ond from six or eight inches to four feet in height, including the stipes, and from about four to

ten inches in breadth, lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate, scarecly narrowed below, delicate green, mem-
branaccous, егесі, pinnate ; lateral and adherent to the caudex ; the barren with seemingly broader leafy

ments, the fertile with their segments apparently narrower and more acuto, owing to the rolling in of
the margin over or towards the sor Pinna» numerous, sub-opposite or alternate, spreading, linear
lanceolate, deeply pinnatifd. Segments oblong, obtuse, or sometimes acute, straight or faleato, entire
or slightly sinuato; the basal ones often longer than, and especially those on the anterior side quite
distinct from, the rest. ‘The fertile fronds differ in having the margins of their segments revolute, and
in being taller, with a stouter stipes

Venation of the lobes consisting of a stout midvein, flexuous in the upper part, from which proceed
alternate once or twice forked veins, the venules or voinlets running out to the margin. "The veins aro
forked very soon after leaving the midvein.

Fruetifcation on the back of the frond, oceupying the whole surface. Sori small, round, sit
near the base of the venules, i ¢, just above tho fork of the vein, and forming a line on each side the
midvein, and about equally distant from it and the margin, though apparently marginal from the invo-
lution of the edge of the frond ; they aro at first distinct, but often become laterally confluent, an

sometimes effused over the whole of the small space between the rolled-up margins, Zndusium a small

delicate roundish membrane, attached posteriorly, lacerate and glandular at the n Spore-cases

numerous, brown, obovate. Spores oblong or reniform, strongly muricate.

Duration. Тһе caudex is perennial. The fronds are annual, the barren ones growing up about Мау

the fertile in July, all destroyed by the frosts of autumn,

‘This plant may be distinguished from the other Lastreas by its habit alone, its long, comparatively
slender, creeping caudex being unlike that of any of the other British species ; but notwithstanding this,
and the fact that its fronds are really quite unlike those of Z. Oreopteris, the species has been cor
founded with that plant. It differs from it in having a long creeping caudex, whilst Z. Oreopteris is
tufted, and merely decumbent ; in having its fronds of their full width almost to the very base, with a.
Tong bare stipes, whilst Л. Orcopterís has diminishing pinnw carried down almost to the base of the
stipes; and in having fronds which are almost free from glands, whilst those of Z. Oreopteris are very
conspicuously rosinose-glandular on the under surface, and very fragrant, It is still less like any others
of the British Lastre

Lastren Thelypteris is easily cultivated. It merely requires a light boggy kind of soil, and abundant.
moisture. Out of doors it should therefore have a damp border, or should be placed in somo wettish
place about the fernery. In pots, it must have a very abundant supply of water ; and the pots should
be large and shallow, so that its rhizome may spread naturally over the surface. Peaty soil, alone or
mixed with а proportion of decaying leaves and light sandy loam, will be congenial to it, It is increased

readily by division of the

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Athyrium Filix-fo»mina

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A. Athyrium Filix

B. A. Filix foemina. Iatifolrum

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А, Athyrium Pilix-femina erispum

B. A. Vilix-feemma depauperatum, С. A. Filix-femina. disseetum

Prares XXX. XXXI, XXXII, XXXIII. XXXIV.
THE LADY FERN (Атнүшшм Fruıx-rauINa).

ATHYRIUM, Roth.

Clusters of Spore-cases oblong, or sublunate, medial on the anterior sido of the venules ;
the lowest anterior one usually, sometimes more or all, areuate or hor
shaped in consequence of their erossing the venule and returning its
posterior side; covered by a membranous scale. Zndusiun of the same form as
the clusters, in the usual form of sorus opening along the side towards the
midvein, and (in the British species) having th in split into capillary
segments ; at length reflexed. Veins forked or pinnate ; venules disunited at

their extremities.

A. Fruxreuma; fronds lanecolate, herbaceous, bipinnate, (sometimes subbipinnate or
tripinnate) ; pinnules oblong ovate or lanceolate, sessile and distinct, or more or
less decurrent and united, toothed, or inciso-pinnatifid with the lobes toothed ;
caudex tufted, ereet or decumbent

таты ағасты: йи, Fra Ов ішті ый. 2/12) аа
Аат Far

алта ise, фиш, ener end мете Уруна Jur de Dank, 179) pê 0, 3,86, 18 81
Iorsoorew отолот infer die Boi 190.910.

Less divided forms.

moerore итәм, faex Rar ond Тие Magi ur ди Bota 0, ph 1.
Aime Prset yan, Sela el f Bel ipd. О
Arne Francesa смакси, ee Hand Dri Fem, 1 ed. 94 3 ed 141.
Var. ппвтили; fronds narrow-lanceolate erect ; pinnw distant; pinmules distinct
deeply pinnatifid, lanceolate, acute, becoming linear from the incurvation of the

THE LADY FERN

lobes, the lowest of which is longer and auriculiform ; sori short, numerous, near
the midrib, becoming confluent

‘Arwratoa Puncransa convex, Namen, Wider, у Brith Жеш, cd 25

Var. ramon; fronds oblong-lanceolate ; pinne approximate; pinnules shortly
stalked, flat, imbricato, ovate, unequally lobed at the base, and toothed above
sori uniserial on each sido of, and distant from the midrib,

Анни Ривза zarrout, Belington, Mena of British Dey, $18 0). Mer, Па
Gardener Megas Be Ў ў

Var. warıxo; fronds spreading ellipticJanecolato; pine approximate; pinnules
crowded oblong obtuse, connected at the base by the wing of the rachis, notched
with blunt shallow lobes, which aro bifld or toothed below, short, simple, and
tooth-like above ; sori short, numerous, often much curved and becoming confluent.

Атум Prana anise, Жоп, Populer ну rial en, Vel. O1; Handa f Dish

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.
Fass tarn; cultivated; Е. Clwer: (fr ы ©, Атаны ш
їшї; D. Мен),

Par DITA Actos нна өкпек) eiiis] л
xu uM RE

THE LADY ЕЕ]

Симел stout, erect or decumbent, sometimes elongated and trunk-like, often tufted, sealy at the
crown. Seales lanceolate or ovate-laneeolate, dark brown, sometimes almost black. Fibres strong,
wiry, blackish, branched, the younger parts tomentose.

Stipes terminal, and adherent to the caudex, from about one-third to one-fourth the entire length of
the frond, pale green or dull purplish red, stontish, much thickened and assuming a kind of spindle-shape
Just above the base and considerably reducod in size at the extreme base, scaly ; seales numerous on the
lower part, lanceolate or linear, dark-coloured, varying from dark reddish brown to almost black, fewer
and narrower on the upper part, often contorted. Rachis furnished sparingly with small narrow
deciduous scales, channelled in front, rounded behind.

Vernation circinate. In the partially developed fronds tho apex becomes liberated and bent down-
wards in a curve like that of a shepherd's erook,

Fron very variable in size, outline, and division, herbaceous, usually of a bright tender green, erect

spreading, or drooping. In the form we have figured (which is one of the most compound states of the

ineisa type) two to three feet high, and from nine inches to а foot broad ; but often met with mature
from one to two fect high, and from three to six inches broad, and not unfrequently nearly or quite five
feot in height, with the longest pinnze measuring ten inches. ‘The outline is lanceolate, sometimes very
broad, sometimes narrow ; the less developed forms scarcely bipinnate, the pinnules being connected by
the winged rachis, the more highly developed forms almost or quite tripinnate, the pinnules being distinct;
and divided almost, or quite, to tho midvein. Pinna numerous, opposite or alternate, more distant below
and often deflexed; sometimes approximate, sometimes distant above ; linear-oblong, broadest at the base,
gradually narrowing to a point, pinnate, Pinnules oblong, or ovate-lanceolate, obtuse or acuto ; sessile
with a broad attachment, docurrent and confluent at the base, or with a very short narrowed stalk-like
attachment ; pinnatifid with shallow 2-3-toothed lobes at the base, and simple teeth towards the apex, or
deeply pinnatifid throughout, with the lobes variously toothed—the teeth sometimes confined to the
apices of the lobes, but in the moro compound forms extending along their sides ; the teeth are usually
short and blunt-pointed, but sometimes narrowed and lengthened, though never normally bristle-pointed.
‘The pinnules are sometimes merely patent, but frequently form a right angle with the secondary rachis
and they are sometimes fat, the teeth lying in the same plano, or they become convex from the incurving.
of the teeth over the sori. In some forms there is no appreciable difference in the proportionate size of
the lobes, but in others the lowest anterior lobe is considerably lon ing an auriculato appearance
to the pinnules, and forming a conspicuous lino on cach side the rachis of the pinnae.

Venation of the pinnules in the less divided forms consisting of a flexnous midyein, producing.
alternate сейл of which the lower are forked, with a venule directed into each tooth, and the upper aro
simple, directed into the simple tecth at the apex of the pinnules ; in these the anterior venule of each
fuscicle bears the sorus along its anterior side. When the pinnules are more divided, the veins aro
pinnately branched, several alternate venules being produced, the number corresponding with the number
of teeth; tho anterior уезше is here also soriferous, so that a line of sori are produced on each side the
midvein, but in addition some of the other venules of the lower lobes bear sori. When the pinnules
become very deeply divided, as in the most compound states of the plant, each of the veins produces
several fertile venules, the sori then forming two lines along the lobes. ‘The veins and venules terminate
in a very slight attenuated point, just within the apex of the tooth, towards which they are directed.

Fructification on the back of the frond, dispersed over the whole under surface, Sori numerous

THE LADY FERN.

short, oblong or curved, indusiate, medial ; usual ying the anterior sido of the anterior venules,
in the Joss divided forms, and then straight, short oblo cle of the lower one, sometimes of
more than one, crossing the хепе, and formi the posterior
side of the venule, and forming an arcuate or horse-shoe-sha much divided
varieties, this curved form of sorus is more frequent; and sometimes it is even more lant than
the simple oblong form. In this latter state, the fructiication may bo readily mistaken for that of
а Башта, ‘The sori are at first distinct, but generally become moro or less confluent by the spreading
of the erowded spore-cases. Zndusium membranaccous, the free margin cut into capillary: segments,
Spore-cases numerous, dark brown, obovate. Spores oblong, granulate or muriculato

Duration. "The caudex is perennial, "The fronds are annual, appearing about May, and being
destroyed by the first frosts of autumn, or decaying carly in the autumn, even when protected
against frost.

The Lady Fern is not easily confounded with any othor British Fern. Though related on the one
hand to Aypleninm, and referred to that genus by many talented botanists, it tinguished
from all the British Aspleniumsby ita herbaceous texture, its annual fronds, and its whole habit, as well

by the curved or arcuate sori. On the other hand, these sori connect it in some degree with Lastrea,
and it was no doubt the examination of specimens with advanced fructifications of this form which led
toits being associated, as it was formerly, with Aspidium ; but neither is it properly referrible to the
Aspidice at all, nor is the plant sulliciently like any species of Lastrea to be mistaken for one of them.

‘Tho genus AUyrium, to which it is referred, is nevertheless one of doubtful character: not on the
ground stated by Mr. Newman—that Roth's typical species is 4splenium fontanum, and that we have

to restrict the genus to the “Filix-femina or abnormal group,” because that would be a palpable
perversion of the authors meaning; for the fact of Asplenium fontanum occurring first in Roth's
‘enumeration of the species, does not constitute it the type of the genus, but is clearly on account: of its
being the smallest and the simplest of the forms he proposed to bring together ; Roth, moreover, in his
generic character, expressly states of the indusium “margine Incinjato-fimbriatum,” which character
belongs specially to the Filix-Remina group, and does not well apply to A.fontanum. There need be no
hesitation therefore about restricting Roth's rium within the limits to which he himself points, and.
thus identifying it with the Filix-femina group. It is by taking a wider and more comprehensive view,
that the genus becomes doubtful Both Presl and Fóe unite AWantodia and Athyrium under the
later name, and characterise the group mainly by the short oblong gibbous sori, and vaulted indusia,
Dut thes marks pass insensibly into those of Aspleniam ; while the character afforded by the fringed
indusin, on which Roth seems partly to have relied, is too trivial for the purpose of generio definition,
‘The remaining character, that of the curved arcuate or horse-shoe-shaped sori is certainly foreign to

Asplenium, and indicates, as we have already stated, a tendeney towards Zastrea. 16 is on this

ground that we adopt the genus, from which the straight-fruited Aflantodias should assuredly be

removed to Asplenium. The effect of this, though it will doubtless reduce Aéhyrinm very much, will
mot be to restrict it entirely to the forms of A. Ziliz.famina, a considerable number of distinct species
from various countries having a similar fructification.

‘The Erect Lady Fern—A. Frux-roanva niamicun—(Puare ХХХІ. А) is generally distinguishable
by ita narrow erect fronds, and its distinct and apparently linear pinnules, which however owe their
narrowed appearance to the inflection of the points of their lobes over the sori ; the anterior basal
pinnules are also conspicuously longer than the rest, s are the anterior basal lobes of all the pinnules,
‘The caudex grows in tufts, and produces numerous fronds, which stand upright, and have a rigid
appearance, though in reality herbaceous, owing probably to the cireumstance of their growing exposed,
аз is generally the caso with this variety. ‘The same eause, namely, exposure, often produces more or
less of convexity in the pine, Tt oceurs with tho stipes—which is much thickened just above the base,

as is generally the caso in this species—cithor pale green, or purplish red, The fronds grow from two to

THE LADY FERN.

four feet high, with a narrow lanceolate outline. ‘The pinna» are distant, the lower ones most so, as well
as deflexed ; the majority however having an upward tendency. The secondary rachis is slender, and
without any herbaceous wing, the pinnules being set on quito distinct from each other, and very com
monly at a right angle with it; they aro narrow, and have the appearance of being almost linear, with
the enlarged basal lobe quite evident. ‘This narrowed appearance results from the incurving of
points of the narrow lobes into which the margin is divided, whence the pinnules become convex. "The
lobes are toothed. ‘The sori are developed at the base of the lobes on the anterior sides of the venules,
extending in two lines up the larger lobos, АП the lobes however are so narrow, that they are neces
sarily very near together from the first, and become confluent as soon as the spore-eases begin to spread.
‘This form or variety is no doubt general ; it is known to occur in various places all over England, in
North Wales, in both the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, and in the four provinces of Ireland.
Miss Wright's Lady Fern—A. Fux-roanya Larronun—(Praro ХХХІ. B)—is a peculiar-looking
variation, só peculiar indeed that Mr. Babington was induced on his first acquaintance with it to.
consider it a distinct species. It is по doubt a marked variety, and as it is reproduced from the
spores we cannot accept the views of those who regard it as a nonentity. Its principal differences lie in
the densely crowded condition, and unequal size, as well as uneven toothing or laciniation of the
pinnules, and in the situation of the sori, ‘The fronds are three feet or more in height, elongate oblon;

Tanccolate, flaccid, and of a dark-green colour. The stipes and rachis are stout, the former of about the

average length. The pinnae are short, and distant below, approximate or even crowded upwards,

irregularly lincar-oblong in outline, with a tendency to become cuspidate at tho apex. ‘The pinnules
are ovate, or oblong-ovate, blunt or sometimes acute, unequal, the anterior side being largest, flat,
stalked, or at least having a narrow stalkclike attachment, overlapping ; they are laciniate at the base,
the lobes oblong and irregularly toothed ; these lobes becomo smaller upwards, and eventually towards
the apex merge into teeth, the teeth being usually but unequally taper-pointed. Тһе veins are
branched in the manner already described, and the sori are produced on the anterior side of the lowest.
anterior venule ; but the vein becomes branched at a greater distance from the midvein than is usually
the ease, and thus the sori, which are small, aro ranged in two distant lines, about midway between

the midvein and the margin. This variety was found by Miss Wright, near Keswick, in Cumberland,
where but a plant or two was discovered. It docs not appear to have occurred elsewhere, Or

taken from a specimen of moderate size, kindly communicated by Mr. Е. Clowes, of Windermere,
exhibits a curious sport in one of its pinnw, in which the rachis has become elongated, so that the
pinnules do not stand in the usual imbrieated position.

Dickies Lady Fern—A. Frux-roormsa млшхом—(Рилте XXXI. C)—is a small plant, generally to
be known by the exactly elliptio-lanceolate outline of its fronds and by its erowded oblong pinnules,
which aro connected at the baso, and notched with blunt shallow teeth, which latter in many fronds are
mostly simple. The fronds are from a foot to a foot and а half long, spreading, or sub-decumbent, rigid,
scarcely bipinnato. The upper pinn aro spreading, the lower ones deflexed. ‘The pinnules, largest
next the rachis, aro oblong, very obtuse, erowded, or slightly overlapping, connected by a narrow wing,
the margin rather toothed than lobed, the indentations being shallow, and the projeetion on the upper
half seldom more than blunt simple or somewhat retuse notehes, though below they are generally two
or three-toothed, and sometimes are deeper, as well as bifid nearly to the apex. "The sori are mate, or
with a strong tendency to assume the arcuate or horse-shoe-shaped form, and are ranged in a double
line along the pinnulos, sometimes distinet, but often becoming confluent. It is with us a very constant
and neat-growing plant, having the above-mentioned peculiarities ; but we have seen fronds said to be.
produced by plants of this variety, in which the pinnulos were Jess blunt, and the lobes were deeper, and
bifid or trißd at their apex. It was originally found by Dr. Dickie in a cave by the sea, in the neigh:
bourhood of Aberdeen ; and a plant almost exactly resembling it, has been recently gathered by Dr

Allohin, in the Isle of Man.

THE LADY FERN,

The different forms of Lady Fern ave easily cultivated. АШ the | ow readily in good
light loamy or peaty soil, and like plenty of moisture, and for the most part shade and shelter. The
variety sTurticum perhaps prefers exposure. ‘The dwarf tufted variety called erispum, and the smaller
abnormal forms, are rather apt to sustain injury from too much confined dampness about the crowns in
winter. ‘The species in its varied phases may be considered one of the most beautiful of the larger

deciduous native

Though attempting to enumerate for the use of cultivators, as well as for the information of.
botanists, the many forms in which the Lady Fern appears, we have not been always able to assign
to them exact limits, for in many eases they pass by intermediate forms the one into the other. After,
however, havin, several years given much attention to this subject, we have come to the
conclusion that there is more of permanence and constaney among them than is generally believed. We
have rediseovered several recognisable forms, but with an inerease of vigour, in the samê situations
after a lapse of six or eight years, so that the variations in these eases were at least not the result of
age, We have removed others to the garden, and have not found them to vary beyond the acquisition.
of an increase of vigour under cultivation ; and we have removed plants of the less compound forms
from the open air to a shady greenhouse, without inducing any change of habit, or producing
thereby even an approximation to the more compound forms. On the other hand some varieties,
rhueticum especially, is reported to change under cultivation; but we have had no opportunity of
experimenting with this form, which, as far as our observations go, owes its peculiar appear
ances to its growing naturally in exposed wet places ; when removed to the shelter of a garden
it no doubt becomes more lax, but even then we believe it may be identified. Every part of the
plant —the scales, the stipes, the outline and direction of the frond, the form, attachment, and.
direction of the pinnules, and the size and position of the sori—is so liable to vary, that itis dificult to
determine what peculiarities aro of the highest value in endeavouring to set limits to the varieties, and
after all, much reliance must be placed on differences which the eye detects but which the pen fails to

record. For this reason especially, fow of the forms below enumerated are considered to have any

other botanical importance than that of proving the variability of what are called species. We have

however, thought it better to notice all that were known to us, than to cast the most puzzling aside as
‘diseased or malformed; or “not having any botanical existence? Тһе testing of the constaney or
inconstaney of the forms of such variable plants as the present, with patience and perseverance under
fair conditions of culture, is worthy the attention of those Fern-growers who have space for tho
experiments. The enumeration which follows, of the modifications of form occurring among our native
Lady Fern is enriched by many notes and memoranda from Mr. Wollaston

1. confluens QL). А very remarkable form, found by Mr. A. Tait, of Edinburgh, “in the seam of a
perpendicular rock, on the side of one of the pine-covered mountains near Dunkeld,” in 1853, It has a
peculiar rigid erect appearance. The original fronds were about nine inches high, but the plant has
not recovered the effects of its removal, which was effected with difficulty. The рїш are about an.
inch long, the basal pinnule distinet, with shallow two or three-toothed lobes, the rest crowded,
confluent at the base, pinnatifidly lobed, with distinet blunt teeth. In the original fronds these
confluent pinnules were considerably reduced in size

2. latifolivim (Ва). Mr. Wollaston’s notes on this variety, already described above, are as follows:
‘The fronds are ovate-amceolate, subtripinnate, the lobes of the pinmules being cut almost to the
midvein ; the stipes is short, and but thinly clothed with scales. ‘The pinnze are alternate, approximate
оп the upper part of the frond, distant below, linear-lanecolate. The pinnules, which are crowded
and overlapping, are stipitate, ovate, and deeply and irregularly incised. It is a very graceful variety

id easy of cultivation, but retains its abnormal character best in the open air

3, marinum (ML). Of this Mr. Wollaston notes as follows:—This variety differs essentially from

THE LADY FERN

the common forms of the species in being nearly prostrate and very rigid. "he scales, which thickly
clothe the lower portion of the stipes, are of an intense brown colour, almost black, The fronds,

which are sub-bipinnato, vary much in size, and are exactly lanecolate, the shortening of the pinne from
the centre of the frond being equal, both towards the apex and the base. The pinnae taper but little
from the rachis for two-thirds of their length, and from thence into a somewhat acuminate point
The pinnules are erowded and overlapping, oblong and blunt, and simply notehed.

4. stonodon (ML). А very elegant form of small size, varying from one foot to a foot and a half in
The pinnules are united by a narrow wing along the rachis, and are approximate, linear
pinnatifid with toothed lobes below, simply toothed above, the teeth conspicuously narrow, regular,

and somewhat elongated, "The rachis is pale dull red. It has been communicated from Ifracombe, by
the Rev. J. M. Chanter, and from Gomshall, by Mr. E. Morse, ‘The scales are pale tawny brown ; but
їп a closely allied plant, from Devonshire, they are black. ‘The fine elegant toothing is remarkable

5. acuminatum (М). А very curious dwarf variety, gathered on Snowdon, by Ме, W. Pamplin, and

constant under cultivation. It has a short stipes, with narrow contorted scales ; fronds rather more
than a foot high ; and somewhat erowded pinna», ending in a longish serrated acumen. ‘The pinnules are
distinct, but decurrent, oblong but often narrowed below, crowded, patent, pinnatifid below, and cut
around the blunt apex into longish acute teeth. It is altogether a slender-looking and elegant plant.
Mr. E. J. Lowe has sent a similar form from Clitheroe, Lancashire

6. excurrens (ML). ‘The general appearance of this plant is that of molle, but the points of the pinnas,

and sometimes of the pinnules and teeth, run out into diaphanous hair-like points, which have tho

appearance of being an excurrent growtlrof the veins, Tt was found at 1

Tunbridge Wells in 1853, and
is cultivated by Mr. Wollaston. A similar variety has been found near Ilfracombe by the Rev. J. M.
Chant

7. pruinosum (NE). This resembles the moderately developed growths of molle, but has the stipes
nd rachides covered with small glands, which give them a hoary appearance, somewhat resembling
pubescence. It occurs with both red and green stipes. ‘The form, with red stipes, we found at Tarbet,
in Dumbartonshire; and a very similar plant was gathered by Dr. Allchin in the Isle of Man.
Another state, rather more lax, and with palo green stipes, has been found by Dr, Allchin at Virginia
Water, Surrey

В. odontomanes (ML). A small form, growing from a foot to a foot and a half high. It has broadly
lanceolate fronds, short broad acuminate pinnas and rather distant patent pinnules, decurrent at the pos
terior base, deeply pinnatifid, the lobes toothed with elongated orlinear acute irregular teeth. The most
marked form was sent from Conistone, by Miss S. Beever. — We have analogous forms, as well as
others closely akin but narrower, found in Denbighshire by Mr. Pritchard ; at Virginia Water and in the
Isle of Man, by Dr. Allchin ; and by ourselves at Glen Croe, in Argyleshire, and Tarbet, in Dumbarton
shire, It may be regarded as а long-toothed and usually small, often narrow, form of the molle group.

9. molle (Roth). The form, which we consider to be the A. molle of Roth, is a small plant of from
ono to two feet high, lax with rather distant pinne ; the pinnules oblong bluntish, having a broad

attachment, and more or less obviously connected at the base by the narrow wing of the rachis; they

are pinnatifd, the lobes oblong, and the lowest two or three-toothed, the rest notched or simple. The

larger states of this form, in which the pinnules become more distant, rather less conspicuously united
fat the base, and rather more deeply toothed, correspond with a specimen of the Polypodium molle of
hreber, preserved in Sir J. E. Smith's herbarium, We believe it is not at all an uncommon plant
but it is met with under several conditions differing in size, and in the degree of toothing, and of con.
fluence in the pinnules, the larger forms merging into trifidun.
10. (rifum (Roth), This is а larger plant than moll, with more distinct pinnules, the Jatter of
an oblong lanceolate form, rather larger at the base on the anterior side, and cut half way to the midrib

into lobes, the majority of which, in the typical states, aro entire at the edges, and three-lobed at the

THE LADY FERN,

apex. Тһе sori are near to the midrib, and often become confluent. It is а common plant. Possibly it
may be the more highly developed condition of some of the commoner small plants referred to
molle ; or, it may be a loss developed state of the ineisum group. We believe, however, that
some at least. of the forms referred above to nolle and odontomanes, are permanently distinct from
the more divided forms representing the incisum and rhactioum groups.

11. oratum (Roth). This is moro readily identified, from being figured by Müller. It grows from
two to three fect high, with broad lanceolate fronds, ‘The pinnules are ovate-oblong, narrowed but
obtuse at the points, flat, largest on the anterior side, deeply pinnatifid, the toothing of the lobes not
confined to their apices. ‘The sori are placed in two lines near the midrib, and a tendency is shown to
devclope moro than one on the basal lobes, It does not appear to be very frequent.

12, oltusum (М). This has broad fronds, about two feet high, the leafy portion about half as broad
as long. The pinnules aro flat, distinct, obliquely and very obtusely ovate-oblong, somewhat decurrent
behind, cut into a few broad variously-tootlied lobes, the teeth short and bluntish. It has somewhat
the appearance of blunt pinnuled forms of Lastrea dilatata. Тһе sori form two lines nearer the midrib
than the margin. It was found at Virginia Water by Dr, Allchin.

13. frondosum (ML). This is a larger and more compound state, two to three feet high, with broad
lanceolate fronds, and broad approximate pinnzo ; the fronds having a more crowded leafy appearance
than usual. The pinnules near the centre of the frond are sometimes seven-eighths of an inch long, and
fully three-eighths in breadth, pyramidal, pinnatifid nearly to the midrib, the lobes oblong toothed, and
the lower ones bearing several sori, in which the tendency to become arcuate is strongly marked, that
nearest the midvein of the pinmulo, on each lobe, being uniformly horse-shoe-shaped. ‘The stipes and
rachis are red in plants we have met with at Mayford. A very similar form has been sent us from Den-
bighshire by Mr Pritchard ; and another form which belongs here also, has been sent by Mr. E. J. Lowe.

14. davallivides (W.). This singular aberration from the normal form was discovered in 1854, near
Castle Kelly, in tho county of Dublin, Ireland. Dr. Kinahan, its discoverer, describes the pinnules
to be pinnatifid; “the indentations entire at their edges, and bearing the sori in the angle. ‘The spore:
cases project beyond the edge of the frond, which, added to the bulging forwards of the substance of the
pinnule, gives the plant much the appearance of a Davallia, though of course differing from that genus
in the shape and position of the indusium ; the segments bear but a single vein and sorus" Tt is

nnd only known to us from the above memoranda, communicated by Mr. Wollaston,

15. incisum (Hofîm.). This represents the species in its highest state of development, the pinnulos being.
во deeply divided that the fronds become almost or quite tripinnate, Usually it is a large-growing plant,
with broad drooping feathery fronds. Inone example now before us, gathered in the county Clare, Ireland,
by Mr. R. Barrington, the height is about five feet, and the breadth one foot, the рішше which aro

ascending being quite nine inches long, and the pinnules an inch and a half long, and five-cighths of.

‘an inch wide at the base, Three to four feet is not an uncommon height for this variety, which puts

оп many appearances, and in one or other of its conditions is not infrequent. A form of it loss
common, has the divisions of the pinnules more narrowed and distinct than usual, but equally deeply cut,
as represented in Prats XXX, which is perhaps the most elegant state of this really graceful species,
16, farum (Schum). This is like the last in being a large broad much divided form, but in well
developed states it is even more lax in habit. Its peculiarity consists in the very conspicuous elongation.
of the anterior basal lobe of the long narrow pinnules, which form a line on each side the midrib, It
first attracted our notice in specimens from the neighbourhood of Shrewsbury, in the collection of the
Rev. W. A. Leighton, and we have since reccived it from many localities in the three ki
it does not appear to be an accidental condition, but а distinct and permanent form. It accords with
Schumacher's description of his Adiyrium lazum. "Tho prolongation of the anterior lobe into a Kind of
auricle, indicates an approach towards the variety rhcetícun, in which the same kind of clon

manifest, but all our specimens are much broader and more lax than the latter plant, We ma

THE LADY FERN

that in all the compound forms of Lady Fern the anterior basal lobes aro longer than tho r
what cours in this variety is an exaggerated and more manifest clo

17. rhacticum (Lin). This in its normal state, as already stated, is peculiar on account of its narrow
erect fronds, its ascending pinnes, and linear-lanceolate pinnules, which are rendered still moro
rently linear by the incurving of the points of the lobes. It has the pro

Wo have had no opportunity of testing the effect of growing this plant in shade, but wo should suspect

it would be to produce a resemblance to the last; and this appears to be really the caso

for we learn from Mr, Wollaston, that when grown as а pot plant in the greenhouse, it with
him invariably assumes the appearance of the less developed states of incinum. The form is
not uncommon in exposed boggy places; and two or three states of it occur; ono which Mr. D.
Moore informs us is not uncommon in Ireland, has shorter but equally distinct pinnules, and
the same erect habit, It also occurs with the stipes and rachis either red or green. Aspidium
irriguum. is mo doubt a small stato of the green form of this variety, and is perhaps permanently

18. dissectum. (17), This, and the following, are more or less of an abnormal character. This has
fronds scarcely exceeding a foot in height, broadly oval, and of very irregular development, Tho
inne are unequal, the pinnules rather distant, decurrent, unequal in size and irregular in form, but
for the most part ovate-oblong, blunt, and cut into distant unoqually-toothed lobes. Mr, Wollaston
remarks, «It bears some analogy to premorsum, being irregularly jagged both in the pinnae and
pinnules, but it is of tho usual sizo and forte. It might be described as a full-grown, fully developed
fertile pramorsum. Tt is beautifully lax and elegant in its habit, The pinnules are decurrent and
deeply and irregularly incised. It was found by Dr. Young in Ireland, and is raro and constant in
cultivation.” A plant lately found by Mr. S. Jervis of Darlaston Hall, Staffordshire, in that neighbour-
hood, is very similar, and others found by ourselves at Tarbet, and by Dr. Allehin in the Isle of Man,
are analogous, but not quite identical

19. pramorsum (ML). This curious dwarf and as yet barren form “was found by Dr. Diekio on
Bona Muich-dhu, at an altitude of 3700 feet, in 1846, and has since that time proved constant
under eultivation.” Тһе fronds, which rarely attain a height of eight inches, aro of an irre
lanceolate outline. The pinnas are unequal, and tho pinnules are oblong and decurrent, lacerate, and
irregular, as if they had been partially eaten by an insect. It is excoedingly rare. It is possib
this form may belong to Polypodium alpestre

20. irregulare (ML). A curious variety, in which tho pinnw aro distant, furnished in their upper
half with linear-lanceolate incised pinnules three-fourths of an inch long, those on tho lower half
except the basal anterior one, which is long and narrow, very much though irregularly shortened,
frequently roundish or fan-shaped and pinnatifid, with serrated lobes, intermixed with longer ones.
Tt has been found by Mrs. Rogers in Belvoir Woods, Rutlandshire, in 1851; and similar plants have
been met with by Dr. Allchin at Virginia Water, Surrey ; in Black Park, Buckinghamshire ; and in
the Isle of Man.

21. Zaciniatum (М). А very pretty small form found near Nettlecombe, in 1853, by Mr. Elworthy,
amd since quite constant in cultivation, The outline is irregular, some of the pinna being caudate,
others premorse, and some quite short. ‘The pinnules are decurrent, variable in size and form, and.
very irregularly Jaciniatod, tho sori numerous and erowded about the base of the lobes.

22. abruptum. (М). A singular monstrosity, with somewhat the aspect of marinum. Tho fronds
are variable in form ; those which are most marked have the pinna, which are crowded, partially
depauperated, roundish, or transversely oblong, and unequally cut into coarse lobes or teeth, the
ew pinnules here and there, which bear something like a normal character being bluntly oblong,
with broad shallow-toothed lobes, At the apices of most of the pinne one or two of the pinnules

are larger, and the normal gradually tapering apex is wanting, which together with the dilatation of the

THE LADY FERN

apex of the fronds give them an appearance of peculiar abruptness. Sometimes the frond is narrower
the apex lengthened out, and here and there the pinna are terminated by а somewhat elongated.
Pinnule set endwise, the rest terminating abruptly. Occasionally a normal frond is produced, which
may be compared to those of molle, but with the pinnules narrower and more deeply lobed, whilst the
lobes are smaller and more finely notched. ‘This was found by Dr. Allehin at Port Erin, in the Isle
of Man ; and in the same island another somewhat larger plant, closely related to the normal frond
above described, was met with.

3. Önterruptum (W.). This form partakes much of the characteristics of ramosum, but is sufficiently

net from it, The fronds rarely branch, exeept near the summit, and there are only simply bi-
or trifureate, The pinna vary considerably in this respect, being remarkably variable in length,
shape, and division ; their apices are almost always divided simply or multifidly, and the serratures
of the pinnules are generally deeply and acutely cut. There are two slight modifications of

this variety; one raised from seed by Mr. J. Young of Taunton, Somerset, and tl

e other found
in а batch of seedling plants at Ambleside, Westmoreland, by Mz. Wollaston, Both are rare and

24. ramosum (W.). This, unlike most of the other forms, is so densely covered with glands, as to

ve to the stipes a bloom like that on a plum. ‘The fronds are frequently branched, the ramífica
tions being very unequal. The pinnw are, so to speak, of every possible form and length, those on
опе division of the frond being normal, whilst on another some are long, some short, incised,
interrupted, depauperated, laciniated, abortive, or often altogether wanting. ‘The pinnules have the

same kind of unsymmetrical development, their serratures being either one, two, or tree-cleft on

the same pinnule. It is sparingly fertile, and permanent under cultivation. It was found by
р »

W. W. Reeves, near Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

25. erosum (W). "This form differs from pramorsum in being of the usual size, and fertile ; and
the sori are so abundant and large, that they are almost confluent. ‘The outline of the frond is normal
and the same may be said of the pinnw, but they are somewhat depauperated. The pinnules are very

laciniated, and toothed, and (what is very unusual) are frequently bifid or multifd, Tt
was found near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, by Mr, Wollaston ; and a very similar form has been found by
Dr. Allchin at Cahir Conree, in Ireland. Another plant, somewhat more regular and normal-looking,
with a tendency to dilatation at the points of the pinnules, was gathered in 1855, by Dr. Allehin, in the
Isle of Man.

26. polyclados (Mi). Under this head we include several large much-divided ramose forms found
in Devonshire and Guernsey. ‘They are undoscribablo, no two fronds being alike in their divisions,
One before us from Devonshire, communicated by the Rev. J. M. Chanter, is three-branched, the
branches Dipinnato dichotomous at the end; the pinu unequal, sometimes Did ; the pinnules
irregular in size, shape, and division, Another from Guernsey, sent by Mr. C. Jackson, has tho pinnae
excessively developed, and becoming braneh-like in tho middle of the frond, while those at the base
аз well as apex appear as if arrested. ‘The pinnules on the larger pinne are often an inch-and-a
half long, quite again pinnate, the secondary pinnules pinnatifid with ineiso-laciniate lobes,

27. polydactylon (ML). This is a monstrous plant of the ineina type, with flat, ovate, lanceolate
pinnatifid pinna. Its peculiarity consists in the apices of the pinn being furcately divided into
about five or six normal-looking—not erisped—points ; in other words, they are plane, and bi-tri
fureate at the tips. he apex of the frond is also several times forked. It was found near
Nettleeombe by Mr. C. Elworthy, to whom we are indebted for a frond. We learn from Mfr
Elworthy that he finds the fronds of this variety to perish six weeks earlier than those of the some-
what similar variety multifidum.

28. furcatum (М), This is а fureate monstrous form of one of the less divided types. The ends of

its pinnae are forked once, twice, or more, with a tendency to dilatation in the tips; and the apex of the

LADY FERN

frond is divided into a short. tasse s found near Ilfracombe, by the Rev. J. М. Chanter and is,

29. тудат (М); cristatum (W). This is the most beautifully symmetrical—yet monstrous

and graceful permanent variety which has yet been found, equally beautiful and exactly analog

the variety eristata of the Malo Fern. Its habit corresponds exactly with the usual form of tho plant

but it differs in having the apicos of the frond, pinnae, and (in well-grown р

ants) the pinnules most
exquisitely tasselled or divided into a lash of branches. The tips of the рї are in fact many times
dichotomous, with the apices dilated and incised. Те belongs to tho rAatieum group. Мг. Wollaston

ішесіз, with a view to uniformity in the names of corresponding varieties, that this ought to be called
eristatum on account of its similarity to the crested form of the Malo Fern ; but it seems impossible
without continually changing the names in use, to arrive with exactness at this uniformity, so that

Fem-cultivators should adopt the rule which botanists have established on this point, and avoid mere

changes. Our plate of this variety necessarily represents a small specimen ; when large and at the same

time well grown, it is far handsomer, ‘This form was found near the Seven Churches, in Wicklow,
Ireland, by Mr, D. Moore, in company with Mr. Newman ; and it or similar forms have also been
reported to have been found in Clare, by Dr. Kinahan, and in Killarney, by Mr. Ogilby

30. depauperiatum (W.); ramoswm (ML), А remarkable monstrosity which, although it somewhat
resembles the last, differs from it essentially in its being of unsymmetrical development. Тіс apex of the
frond is much more deeply lacerated or split up into numerous corymbiform tassels, ‘The pinmo are
also tasselled, depauperated, Inciniated, and irregular, and the pinnules very irregular, bluntly toothed,
and frequently altogether wanting, The sori are frequently abortive. It is an exceedingly rare variety,
and was found, it appears, many years since, by Mr. J. Gunning (at that time foreman in the Dublin College
Botanic Garden), near Bon Bulben in Sligo, Ireland. Cultivators owe its distribution to Dr. Mackay.

31. orispum (М); Smithii (Hort). his singular variety has more the appearance of a tuft of fine
curled parsley than of a Fern. It is of slender and dwarfish habit, and the fronds are ramified in
every possible way, the rachis being divided very irregularly, and each apex densely tufted. The pinna»
аша pinnules are very unsymmetrically laciniated, and frequently wanting for a long portion of the
spes. The fructification is generally abortive, as in the last, but, as in that, not always so. It was
originally found by Mr. A. Smith “on the Hill Orab" Antrim, Ireland ; subsequently in Corymulzie
Lynn, Braemar, Scotland, by Sir W. С. Trevelyan ; and recently at "Todmorden, Lancashire, by
Mr. J. Huddart

"To this species, and possibly to the variety rieticum, belongs a plant “ gathered on y" mountains of
Mourne, in y* county of Down,” by Sherard, and now preserved in the University Herbarium, Oxford.
It is the Asplenium Adiantum-nigrwn of Sir J. E. Smith, and is referred to Asplenium acutum by
Mr. Newman! Sir J. E. Smith correctly describes it as of a delicate membranous texture, the leaflets
finely laciniate and without fructifcation, We are indebted to Mr. М. Т. Masters, sub-curator of the
Fielding Herbarium, for a photograph of Sherard's plant, which leaves no room for doubt that it is
an Athyrium. 16 is assuredly not at all like Asplenium Adiantum-nigrum, or Asplenium acutum.
‘The frond is about a foot long, linear-lanceolate, bipinnate, with narrow oblong pinna, of which it
would appear that the veins are more perfectly developed than the parenchyma, hence the appearance
of being palmately laciniate. Tt is just such a might be expected to be produced in a dark

cave, in which this is said to have grown

In addition to the forms above enumerated, many other curious ones have been met with both in
the normal and monstrous state; wo may especially refer to the ‘gatherings? of Dr. Allehin, in the
Isle of Man; of the Rev. J. М. Chanter, in Devonshire; of Mr. Wollaston, in the Lake District;

and of Mr. Clapham, in Yorkshire, These, however, have been too recently obtained to admit of

THE LADY FERN

any opinion being formed as to their permanence; they will doubtless be submitted to the usual

test, namely, cultivation, We must also repeat, in order that the whole truth may appear, that
among herbarium specimens, in addition to those we have referred with tolerable certainty to the.

forms above enumerated, there are many others which could not be satisfactorily placed. Docs this
long series of gradations representa species? One can scarcoly imagine two compound Ferns more

dissimilar than the extreme states of the molle and ineisum

plates XXX. and XXXL С. Or, after all, is there in na

soups, or the forms represented in our
jure no such thing as a species among plants,

but ever-changing varieties, or races of individuals only? And is a “species” to be considered
merely as a group of individuals more or less alike, or having certain marks in common, brought
together artificially for the convenience of naturalists, as certain so-called species are collected

together in the same way, and for the same purpose, in the groups called genera? "The deep study

of Ferns would be scarcely likely to produce a decided negative to this question.

Prare XXXV. a

THE SMOOTH ROCK SPLEENWORT

(ASPLENIUM. FONTANUM).

ASPLENIUM, Zinnaus.

furnished with an indusium or membranous

Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblon
anterior side of the veins or кеші
cover. Indusivm of the same form, entire or somewhat. ја
the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of ven

nehos (renales) simple or forked ;

opening alo
Veins disunited at their extremities, their bi

sometimes furcately branched without a midvein.

fronds Tinear-laneeolate broadest upwards, rigid, glabrous

pinnules small ol
rachis narrowly winged throughout ; sori

A. vosraxva; dwarf
bipinnate; pinna oblong-ovate

large, angular, pointed teeth
short oblong,

wate-cuneate, with a fow

(ich). кен, St

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

THE SMOOTH ROCK SPLEENWORT

Caudex short, oreet, tufted, scaly, Seulcs subulate, dark brown, semi-transparent, the tissue striate
with elongate parallel cells. йе slender, branched, dark brown, tomentose
Stipes slender, dark purplish brown at the base, becoming green upwards, usually about one-third

the length of the frond, furnished at the base with a бау very small deciduous scales j terminal and

adherent to the caudex, Zachis green, with a narrow elevated margin or wing throughout, the marg

extending nearly to the base of the stipes

Vernation cixcinato,

Fronds averaging four or five inches in length, varying from about two and a half to ten or twelve
inches, rigid, dark green, smooth, erect or spreading, narrow-lanceolate, broadest above the middle,
bipinnate. Pinna oblong-ovate, spreading ; the lower ones smaller, palmately three-lobed and more
distant; the uppermost ones oblong, and more crowded, Pinnules roundish obovate, tapering to the
base, the lower ones distinctly stalked on the narrowly-winged secondary rachis, the upper more decur-
rent ; their margins deeply notched, with from two or three to five or seven coarse, angular, spino

Venation of the principal pinnules consisting of a flexuous midvein, sending off alternate simple
veins, one of which is directed towards each tooth, and extends almost to its apex.

Fructification on the back of the frond, most copious upwards, but extending nearly to the base
‘Sori, or clusters of spore-cases, small, short oblong, from two to four on each pinnule, attached ne
the base of the veins on their anterior side ; at first distinct, but often becoming confluent and forming.
largo shapoless masses over the centre of the pinnules ; indusiate, Zndusium short oblong, white,
usually straight behind, sometimes a little eurved ; rounded, entire, and sometimes slightly wavy on
the free margin. Spore-cases small, roundish. Spores angular, rough.

Duration, "The caudex is perennial. "The fronds aro also persistent, the plant being evergreen, and

continuing in growth the whole year, under favourable conditions,

‘This Fern is readily known among the British Asplenice, by its bipinnate fronds, taken in conjunction
with their small stature, and the minuteness of their parts, six inches in length for the frond, and half
an inch for the pinnw being rather above the average growth. Apart from this diserepaney in size, it
very much resembles A, lanceolatum, the structure of its parts being nearly identical, but in the latter
the lower pinnze do not diminish in so marked a degree

‘Some botanists continue to place this species in Athyrium, as originally proposed by Roth, but the
plant is too nearly akin to 4. Zanceolatwm to be separated from it, and the general structure of its sori
is asplenioid not athyrioid, There is occasionally manifested a very slight tendency to produce 4
arcuate sori characteristic of Afyrium, but this does not occur in a sufficient degree to necessitate
the removal of the species from Asplenium, with which in all other respects it so exactly accords,

It is an easily-grown frame or greenhouse Fern, particularly desirable in a small collection from its
small size and evergreen habit, It should be potted in well-drained porous soil, composed of turfy peat,
with а small proportion of loam, and abundance of sand, "The crown of the plant may be advantageously

raised somewhat above the general surface in potting, by being wedged between two or threo pieces

THE SMOOTH ROCK SPLEENWORT

of sandstone, or some similar porous material. Tt is increased without difficulty by division. A
magnificent mass of this plant, cultivated by Dr. Young, can be scarcely less than a foot in diameter:
with fronds eight or ten inches

This plant is not much given to variation. Mr, Wollaston notices a variety, multifidm, in which
the fronds are oceasionally bifid or multifid at the apex; this state is not uncommon, but it is also

Permanent, and plants having this tendency sometimes produce a few of the рішше unusually

Mr. Wollaston proposes for another supposed variety, of dubious origin, the name of proliferum
‘This interesting plant, which has been known to us since 1851, is so remarkably distinct, that were it
not for the obscurity of its history, we should, without any hesitation, claim for it specie rank
Though most like A. fontanum of our British species, it is in fact quite unlike that plant in several of
its characters. We do not recognise it in any published descriptions, nor ean we find any specimens
to which we can refer it in Sir W. J. Hooker's magnificent collection, The fronds we received in 1851
were from the gardens at Peper-Harrow Park, Surrey. It has since been exhibited at the metropolitan
fütes by Mr. Parker, nurseryman, of Hornsey, who, we believe, holds the stock of it, and whose plants
were obtained from Mr, Williams, gardener to C, B. Warner, Esq, of Hoddesdon, Mr. Williams
reports that about six years since he received it, as A. viride, from a gardener, whose friend had found
it in Scotland, and sent three plants. ‘This person, whose name was Filden, it appears died soon after
the occurrence. Compared with 4. fontanum, the fronds are longer and narrower in proportion, being
seven or eight inches high, and not moro than three-fourths of an inch wide, ‘They have a dark brown

rachis throughout, which is not distinctly winged, as in fontanum, although there is a slight green

decurrent line at the upper angles between the pinnw ; the outline is different, being equal and almost

linear, not broader upwards ; the lower pinnae are searcely more distant than the rest, and they are
all refracted in a remarkable manner, as well as much loss divided; the habit of growth is spreading,
and the fronds are proliferous. Mr. Wollaston remarks, that “its having been associated with
A. viride, and partaking so much of the aspect of that species as to have deceived some of our best
pteridologists, is at least circumstantial evidence of its British origin. ‘The little bulbils are formed
principally at the junction of the pinnze with the rachis.” We are so convineed of its distinctness
that notwithstanding its dubious history, we shall add the accompanying definition, to furnish
means for its recognition, and im the hope that the attention of botanists may be directed to

its rediscovery

vofrachem : fronds linear subbipinnate ; pine short oblong obtuso, refracted,
pinnate at the base, pinnatifid above ; pinnules (the lowest anterior one only
distinct, the rest more or less confluent) roundish, with a few coarse angular
mueronate teeth, the upper two-four toothed, the lower ones overlapping ; sori
short oblong oblique, in a line on each side near the costa of the pinnae ; rachis
chestnut-coloured, marginate above, not winged, bulbil-bearing.

Hab.? Scotland,

Prats XXXV. в.

THE LANCEOLATE SPLEENWORT

(ASPLENIUM. LANCEOLATUM).

ASPLENIUM, Linnans,

Clusters of Spore-cases linear, obl

cate, straight, attached along the inner or
anterior side of the veins or venule

furnished with an indusium or membranous
cover. Indusium of the same form, entire or somewhat j

opening along the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation.
Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (v

ules) simple or forked
sometimes furcately branched without a midvein,

А. taxceonarux; fronds lanceolate, rigid, glabrous, bipinnate ; pinnae ovate-lanceolate

pinnules obovate or obliquely ovate, blunt, lobed or toothed, the teeth coarse,

angular, mucronate ; rachis with slightly elevated margins in front, not winged,
minutely scaly ; sori short, oblong, produced towards the mar

Wanna S фы). Waldes Sie
Алли Batons, Y S ms

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.
Pus ХОХТ, батали оланла 1, fron деу; Ze Леа. 3

(A Moor, Lado, Жы, Dt, Мы, Peri) in Ве Om)

Candee short, thick, erect or decumbent, tufted, densely sealy. Seales clongately subulate,
shining brown, cellulosely-striate. Aires stout, branched, tomentose.
‘Stipes shorter than the frond, usually about a third of tho whole length, sometimes longer, dark

chesnut-coloured below, which extends more or less along the back of tho rachis; terminal

THE LANCEOLATE SPLEENWORT

and adherent to the rhizome. Rachis flat in front, with a slight elevated margin, rounded behind,
furnished sparingly with slender jointed hair=scales ; partial rachides, winged, and also furnished
with similar hairs,

Vernation civeinate

Fronds from threo or four inches to a foot, or occasionally eighteen inches in length, rigid, bright

green, smooth except on rachides, lanceolate, bipinnate, Pinna broadest at the base, narrowing to a
point, usually horizontal, sometimes deflexed, seareely more than half an inch in the smaller, two inches
long in the larger fronds, all even the lowest seareely stalked, sub-opposite or alternate ; the lower
more distant and somewhat shorter. Pinnules variable in form, obovate, obliquely-ovate, or dimidiately
sub-quadrate, the anterior side being most developed, always more or less cuneate at the base ; in the
larger fronds they are pinnatiid below, with obovate sharply-toothed lobes, and coarsely toothed above,
the teeth being mucronate ; in the smaller fronds the lobes are searcely developed, the margin being
coarsely mucronately=toothed. Occasionally the lower pinnwe are longer; sometimes the fronds are
narrow and only pinnate with lobed pinna» ; and in other instances they are membranaceous

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a flexuons midvein, alternately branched, the low
vein directed to the principal lobe, and developing as many venules as there are man
venule extending into each tooth, but not quite reaching the margin; the other veins are forked or
simple, and correspond in number with the marginal teeth,

Fructifcation on tho back of the frond and scattered over its whole surface oblong,
attached on the anterior side of the venules, that is, above the fork of the veins, occupying rather the
centre of the lobes than the centre of the pinnules, which gives a sub-marginal appearance to tho
fructification ; at first distinct, but becoming confluent in irregular masses on the lobes, Occasionally
the sori are sot back to back on the venule ; and they are sometimes so abundant as to become in age
confluent over nearly the whole frond. —Zndusium a white, oblong, slightly irregular membrane,
wavy on the free or anterior margin. Spore-eases globose, Spores ovate, angular, roughish

Duration. The rhizome is perennial. The fronds are persistent, and under shelter are produced at

various times throughout the year, so that the plant is evergreen,

The affinity of this plant is with Asplentum Adiantum-nigrum, from which it may be known by
its lanceolate, not deltoid, outline ; by the presence of hair-seales on its principal and partial rachides ;

by the form of the sori, which is oblong, not linear, the sorus in 4. Zanceolatim being nearly represented
in appearance by the upper half of that of А. Adiantum-nigrum ; and further, by the position of the
sori, whieh is here produced above, and in 4. Adiantum-nigrum below the fork of the veins, consequently
nearer the costa, so that in the latter the sori are central with respect to the pinnules, whilst in
A. lanceolatum they are submarginal. Tho texture is thinner, and the pinnules more equable in size,

This is a very ornamental species, and with us potted in well drained soil of peat, loam, and sand,
amd subjected tothe shelter of a shady frame or greenhouse, not kept excessively moist, it is one of
the most manageable of the smaller evergreen species, always fresh and vigorous.

Of variations, hardly varieties, Mx, Wollaston enumerates three :—"1. тиит (W.), а non.
permanent form, in which the apex of the frond is occasionally bifid or multifid. 2. protiferum (УУ),
an execedingly scarce condition of the plant, having only been observed in two instances, namely,
by Mr, Baxter, of Oxford, and the Rev, W. Н. Hawker, in both cases on cultivated plants, 3. [aci
жибип (У), the peculiarity of which is, that the fronds are remarkably depauperated, the leafy portion
being in some cases entirely wanting ; and the fructification, which is generally very copious, protrudes
on to the face of the frond, во that an inattentive observer would not distinguish the front from the
back, ‘The pinng and pinnules in this latter are frequently mere ribs or veins ; it is sub-permanent
and not uncommon in the Channel Isles.” Mr, Jackson, of Guernsey, sends another from that island,
in which the margins of the pinnules are so curled under, as to give unusual prominence to the

thickened teeth ; it may be called (4) erispatum

ADS

C
4 9
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C.D. A. Adiantum nigrum. obtisum

zu
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Asplentum Adtantımı = nigrum: acututi

Prares XXXVI. XXXVIL

THE BLACK MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

CASPLENTUM ÄDIANTUN-NIGRUN).

ASPLENIUM, Linnaeus,
Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblong or elo ight, attached along the inner or

anterior side of the veins or venules, furnished with an indusium or membranous

cover. Indusium of the samo form, entire or somewhat jagged on the margin,
opening along the inwand side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation.
Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (eenules) simple or forked
sometimes furcately branched without a midvein,

А. Амактамзповли; fronds ovate or deltoid, acute or acuminate, glabrous, sul

bi- tri-pinnate ; ріш» obliquely triangular, obtuse or acuminate; pinnules

ovate or ovate-clongate-attenuate, pinnate or pinnatifid, the ultimate divisions
oblong, or subtrapezoid, euneate at tho base, shallowly lobed with the lobes
toothed or simply toothed ; teeth acute ; sori linear-elongate, contiguous to the
midvein

Var. osrusun; fronds ovate, smaller and less divided; pinnae blunt or bluntish, not
acuminate; pinnules ovate, their rounded apices toothed ; rachis winged.

Var. acurox; fronds deltoid, tripinnate throughout, and as well as the pinnas the lower
ones especially, caudate ; ultimate pinnules narrow-lanecolate, inciso-pinnatifid
the lobes linear, very acute, entire

" азу М. Би). Armen, il Did Fra (cel aa, Вый).

THE BLACK MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

EXPLANATION. OF THE PLATES.

2.7 бту О, А. Amis

Cauder short, thick, tufted, often decumbent, sealy. Seales lanceolate below, extended into a long

hair-like point, dark brown, shining, cellulosely striate below. Fibres stoutish, numerous, branched,

dark brown, tomentose

Stipes elongated, usually about as long as, sometimes longer than, the leafy portion of the frond,

dark purplish brown, bearing about the baso a few scales like those of the crown, smooth upwards,
flat and slightly grooved in front, rounded behind ; terminal and adherent to the caudex. Jt
channelled in front, from the presence of an elevated line on each margin decurrent from the stalk
ie pinna, round, and with the brown colour of the base more or less extending upwards behind,
Vernation circinate
ronds including the stipes from three or four to eighteen or twenty inches long, sometimes even

more, and from one anda half to seven inches across the base of the leafy portion ; usually coriaceous

amd shining dark green above, paler beneath, sometimes of thinner texture; deltoid or ovate, or

sometimes with the sides nearly parallel below, always with a tapered or acuminated apex, bipinnate

in the lesser forms, tripinnate or occasionally almost quadripinnate in the larger ones. Ріта

obliquely triangular, usually elongate and attenuated at the apex, the lower nearly opposite, and

always as long as, usually longer than the rest, the upper becoming alternate and gradually diminishing.

in sizo ; all usually pointing upwards, indes alternate ; the lowest on the anterior side of the rachis,

and considerably larger than the rest, obliquely and broadly ovate, with an attenuated ар

s, pinnate
at its baso, its lowest (secondary) pinnules being ovate obtuse, pinnatifid with sharply serrated lobes
below, and sharply serrated at the apex. ‘Towards the apex of the ріне, which end in a more
or less elongated acumen, the pinnules gradually become oblong and decurrent at the base; and the
same occurs on a smaller scale in the larger lower pinnules themselves, the upper pinna» again being
ower, minus their larger pinnules, In the smaller forms the structure is similar, but the pinnae

uated at the points, and the pinnules are shorter, blunter, and either barely divided,

to the midvein or merely lobed. , The ultimate divisions are all notched with distinet acute serratures,

THE BLACK MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWOR'

Venation of the secondary basal pinnules in the tripinnate fronds, and of the primary basal

pinnules in the bipinnate fronds, consisting of a flexuous midvein, which, by a series of fürcations, sends

out а vein towards each marginal tooth. If the pinnule is not deeply lobed, and the teeth are вир

theso veins are also simple, and bear the sorus on their lower half, commencing. just above their base
and extending half-way to the margin. If the pinnule is lobed below, one vein goes off to each lol
and divides into venules corresponding to the number of marginal teeth, one or two of these venules
in the principal lobes hearing a sorus ; the smaller lobes are occupied by one fureation of the vein ;
these veins, howover, bear on their anterior side a long linear sorus, which commences near the
midvein of the pinnule, and extends beyond the point of farcation. ‘The venules extend within the
sorratures, but not quite to their apes.

Yuetification throughout the back of the frond. Sort linear elongate, indusinto, on the anterior
sido and near the base of the veins, and therefore central with respect to the pinnule ; crowded, and
soon becoming confluent, Zndusium linear, entire, pallid, semi-transparent, and apparently violaceous
from the dark colour of the spore-cases showing through it. Spore-cases globose, shining brown.
‘Spores ovate, angular, roughish.

Duration, "The caudex is perennial. "The fronds are persistent through the winter, so that the plant

is evergreen, and they aro renewed annually late in spring.

From A. lanceolatum, which it most resembles, the Black Spleenwort may be known by its long
stalked triangular fronds and elongated central sori, and almost always by its conspicuously stalked

ower pinne ; it

surface is also of a more glossy texture

t is а very ornamental species, and thrives moderately well under cultivation, if planted in a sandy
soil, well supplied with drainage material, so that water does not stagnate about it. For outdoor
rockwork moderately shaded, it is excoodingly well adapted on account of its shining evergreen
appearance ; and if planted in porous soil among stones on a north aspect, it will generally flourish
Tt does not like a smoky confined situation, and is therefore less frequently seen in а thriving state in
town gardens, It may be increased by division.

‘The Obtuse Black Spleenwort—A. Antawron-xionvat oprusun—(Prare XXXVI, C, D) should
perhaps be considered rather as a less developed condition than ав a variety, it being united by
various gradations with the more developed plant, which we have taken as the representative of the
species; nevertheless, its extreme states seem to claim especial notice. It is a comparatively small
and dwarf plant, and assumes an ovate rather than а triangular outline. Some specimens are not
more than two inches high, and others very marked in character pro six or eight inches high. ‘The
smaller specimens are barely bipinnate, the pinne short and bluntly triangular, the pinnules roundish
obovate, and very indistinctly toothed. The larger examples are tripinnate, with their primary and
secondary pinnules corresponding with the pinnie and pinnules of the small specimens. It is probably
not uncommon, specimens from the three kingdoms being before us.

‘The Acute Spleenwort—A. Aptaxrex-xinea. acorva—(PLare XXXVIL) is a moro distinct plant,
and might perhaps be separated from A, Adiantum-niyrum without much inconvenience or error
‘There are, however, connecting links, which, in a botanical point of view, seem to indicate too ch
affinity to favour the separation of the two, and suggest rather the idea that the one is the extreme
development of the other, The texture of tho plant is firmer and less coriaceous than the usual
states of A, Adiantum-nigrum, but some forms of the latter are undistinguishable in this respect. The
eaudex is short, thick, and tufted, like that of 4. Adiantum-nigrum, with which it also agrees in being.
furnished at the crown and on the base of the stipes with cellulosely reticulated scales, lanceolate
below and ending in a hair-like point, as well as havi sated dark purplish brown stipes. ‘The
fronds in the Trish specimens vary from about six to eighteen inches in length including the stipes,

and are from about two and а half to seven or eight inches across the base of the leafy portion; in

THE BLACK MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

^ very fine example before us, the leafy part is eight inches long and seven broad, the stipes nine inches

Jong. They are quite smooth, and in ontline aro sometimes deltoid, or perhaps more correctly

pentangular, the apices of the lowest posterior pinnules forming additional angles ; sometimes ovate
with the point much attenuated. Full-sized examples of the latter, amd a rather small frond of
tho former state, are shown in our Plate. The smaller might be supposed to indicate a less mature
condition of the plant, but we are scarcoly prepared to adopt this explanation, on account of the
occurrence of equally small fronds in whieh the pentangular outline ved, while again the
ovate fronds are often abundantly fertile; and we would rather su it is an instance of that
profusion of form in Nature which mocks at our specific definitions, In the larger fronds, which are
almost quadripinnate, the ріне, especially the lowest which is also the la the same
subdeltoid outline as the frond itself, excepting that as the pinnules are alternate and not opposite ав
the lower pair of pinnw are, there is a degree of obliquity almost producing a trapeziform outline
"The apices of the pinnae, as well as of the frond, and generally of the pinnules, are caudate, with

sharp deep distant teeth. "Tho larger pinnules of the lowest pinna are somewhat obliquely oval
attenuate, and their divisions, the secondary pinnules, are lanceolate, deeply pinnatifid at a very acute.
angle into linear lobes, the lower of which are about three-toothed, the upper bifid at their points,
these lobes as well as the simple teeth at the apex of the pinnule itself being narrow and very acute
"The pinnae towards the apex of the frond, and the pinnules towards the apices of the ріне, become
gradually narrower than the basal ones described above, until they both become reduced to linear
lanceolate sharply toothed lobes, and these gradually merge into the simple linear teeth of the
caudate extremities, А similar mode of division, but on a smaller scale, obtains in the smaller forms,
the fronds being only tripinnate, and the secondary pinnules narrower, and less deeply lobed. The
veins, though slender, are very distinct ; they consist of a series of fureations, that is (o say, the vein
Which represents the midvein of the pinnules forks below each of the lobes or teeth, and the venule thus
produced proceeds along the tooth or lobe until it nearly reaches the apex, being in the case of the
former simple, and in the ease of the latter again forked once or twice, according as there may be two or
three apical teeth. No ono who has observed the venation in this plant, and is acquainted with our
British Aspleniea, can fail to notice the similarity in form and division and in the condition of the
veins that exists between somo of the pinnules of this plant, especially the shorter and broader ones of
the less divided fronds, and some fronds of 4. septentrionale. There is no definite midvein, but a series
of fureations only, so that this plant alone furnishes sufficient evidence against the adoption of
Mr. Newman's group Amerium as a genus, The sori are very narrow, linear, borne, as in A. Adiantum-
nigrum, contiguous to each other, and near the centro of the pinnules. The indusium is white, semi
transparent, and entire. ‘The plant is one of unusual elegance, both on account of its minute өші»

division, and its smooth shining surface

Some other variations of this species deserving of record, are included in the following summary
1. obtusum (Willd). This form, already described, is rarely more than bipinnate, though sometimes
innato, with roundish or bluntly ovate pinnules, not very conspicuously toothed, Tt is less defined

than some other forms, some of the smaller states of the common plant approaching it very closely, but

as it occurs under different phases, it seems to claim recognition at least as a variety of secondary
importance. A tripinnate example of this form has been communicated by Mr, D. Moore, from tl
county Antrim, Ireland
2 oblongum (М. Тһе chief peculiarity of this form is the parallelism of the sides of its fronds
which thus become narrow oblong, like what occurs in Zastrea spinulosa ; the pinne are short
remarkably triangular, acuminate, the three lower pairs almost equal in size. ‘The subdivisions are
herwise the structure is normal, We have received it from Mr. Jackson, of Guernsey, and it

has also becn found by Dr. Allehin.

THE BLACK MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

3. variegatum (Wo). This exceedingly rare and beautiful variety has been found in Yorkshire, and
also in Guernsey by Mr. Jackson. It is normal in every respect, except in being striped unsymmetri
cally with white ; and is sub-permanent, depending for its variegation, as Mr. Wollaston observes, on
the mode of culture adopted. It is quite different from the usual so-called variegations of this species
Such are for the most part certainly caused by insect attacks, although one example, found by
Mr. Silver on Shottisbrook Church, in Berkshire, has the appearance of actual variegation, being
distinctly margined with yellowish-white, As it does not appear, however, to have again been met
with, we only mention it thus incidentally in this enumeration.

4. multifidum (Wo). This differs in having the apex of the frond, and very rarely of the pinnas
Difureate or multi,

5, Assıom QL). A curious form with a caudate frond the pinnules being rather abnormal-looking,
and irregularly cut into long linear acute entire segments or lobes, answering to the acute teeth of the
usual states of the plant; some of the pinnules may be said to be palmately-laciniate. We have
received it recently from Miss Hoseason, who gathered it near Kingsbridge, in South Devon, and, some
time since, from the late Mr. Ingpen, who obtained а plant of it from a London hawker.

6. intermedium (М). Under this name are included those forms in which large size and laxity of
habit are coincident with an elongation of the parts, and a thin though firm texture of the fronds, such

forms having often been wrongly associated with aeutum, From that variety they differ in their more

elongated and less compound fronds, and in the greater breadth of their ultimate divisions. The pinne

and the fronds are caudate, but there are no linear segments of the pinnules. It seems to bear about

the same degree of relation to the normal state as obtusum, but in an opposite direction, and we

enumerate it as а variety merely in order to point out the steps by which the more usual state of the.

plant approaches the distinet-looking acute form. We have received it principally from the West of
and and the Channel Isles,

7. oxyphyllum QU). This form in its texture and the acuteness of its divisions has a good deal of
resemblance to the true aeufum, but it recedes from it even more than the last in the outline of the

rond, which though small is rather narrow and elongated, with a tendency to diminution rather than

enlargement of the lower pinnae. The pinnw are short, very oblique from the enlargement of the
basal anterior pinnule, the latter being more distinet and distant than the remainder, which become
a good deal confluent; the tecth aro deep, narrow, and conspicuously acute. Some plants were found.
in 1855, near Dunoon, in Argyloshiro, by Mrs. East, of Blackheath,

8. decompositum (М.). This, like асин, is almost or even quite quadripinnate, and may be briefly
described as resembling that variety in tho form of its fronds and ріш, and even pinnules, but the
ultimate parts though narrow are blunt as if rounded off, not acute as in that, and the texture is
more coriaecous. ‘The divisions, moreover, although small and comparatively narrow, are not so much
narrowed as in acutum, and the abs f linear segments, and the bluntness of the few teeth
which are apparent, readily distinguish this plant from that, We have received it from the Rev
J. M. Chanter, who found it at Manaton, in Devonshire

9. aeutum (Bory). This, which has been already fully described, differs in its more subdivided fronds,
in which the deltoid mode of growth is usually strongly developed, in its thinner and papery texture,
and in the presence throughout of linear acute segments and teeth. As to its distinctness, the
preceding enumeration of varieties or forms occurring in this country shows that in composition it is
simulated by decompositum, in texture by ozyphyllum especially, and by intermedium in a considerable
degree ; and in the presence of linear segments or teeth, both by ozypgllur, in which the teeth though
sharp are short, and by seum, in which latter the narrow marginal divisions are, perhaps, rather
abnormal developments of the teeth, than normally narrow divisions of the pinnules. ‘These points of
resemblance, however, and the occurrence of other foreign intermediate states, have determined us in

retaining иени as а variety of A, Adiantum-nigewn,

We
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Asplenium | marinun .

Prare XXXVIIL

THE SEA SPLEENWORT (Asprextou marx).

ТОМ, Linnaeus.
Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblo gato, straight, attached along the in
1 with an indusium or membra
cover. Indusium of the sume form, entire or somewhat (зде

anterior si о veins or venules, furnish

on the ma
‘opening along the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation,
Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (renudes) simple or forked
sometimes furcately branched without a midvein.

A. мази; fronds linear or lincar-lanccolate, tapered above, pinnate; pinna ovate
oblong or linear, oblique, shortly stalked, the margin serrate unequally erenate
or lobato, rarely pinnatifid, the anterior base truncate and sub-auriculate, the
posterior cuneate ; upper ones confluent ; sori large, elongate, borne near the

ib; rachis and petiole winged.

Var, эпсвотон; fronds membranacoous; pinnate, the lower pinnw distinct obtuse
obliquely-triangular, or sub-hastato, undulato and lobate below, the lobes and
the apices of the pinna» minutely apieulato-dentate ; sori small, narrow, remote
from the midrib.

Var, sosmienmarox; fronds pinnate, the pinn almost again pinnate at their base

and deeply pinnatifid throughout ; anterior basal lobes oval acute serrate

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.
Валла XXXVIIL—Asrumnea anne; A, from ener; De Allin B, f
Cereal; Л Aie. D, fa St Des Day, Jem; & O блу. E, fo

Жарқын nS. Helens (I

Caudex tufted, erect, or decumbent, densely sealy. Seales dark brown, shining, cellulosely-striate,

lanceolate, extended into a long hair-like point, Fires branching, numerous.

Stipes shorter than the frond, smooth, channelled in front, chestnut-coloured or purplish-brown

THE SEA SPLEENWORT.

terminal and adherent to the caudex. ае margined and more or less с

‚en above

ds including the stipes averaging from six to twelve inches long, sometimes shorter, occasionally
upwards of а yard long; smooth, corinccous, broadly linear tapering to the apex, pinnate. Pinna
oblique, the anterior basal angle being most produced, varying in outline between oblong, oblong-ovate
and linear; obtuse, often of nearly equal width throughout, usually about an inch in length ; the anterior
base truneately rounded, and produced into a blunt moro or less apparent auricle, the inferior base cut
away obliquely, The lowest are stalked with the stalks winged, the upper become decurrent, and at
length confluent into a tapering pinnatifid apex. The margins aro usually doubly erenato-serrate, the
serratures unequal, sometimes deeper, forming evident lobes ; sometimes (as in fig. о.) the incisions form.
very even and elegant erenatures,

Venation consisting of a. prominent flexuous midvein from which proceed forked reins ; the lowest
anterior vein is two or three times forked, the rest usually once only ; the venules terminate abruptly
within the margin, the anterior ones generally bearing the sori

Fructification spread over the back of the frond, Sori linear, oblique, indusiate, borne on the anterior
side of the venules (except sometimes on those of the auricle, when two or more sori are borne by tho.
same fascicle of veins), commencing near the midvein, and forming two series of short divergent lines
along each pinna. The sori, though consisting of a profusion of spore-cases, are commonly distinct,
though they sometimes coalesce so as to cover the whole under surface. Zndusiwn of the same form,
persistent, entire, Spore-casey numerous, globose, brown. Spores ovate, angular

Duration, The caudex is perennial. The fronds being persistent, and the young ones each y

produced long before the old ones deeay, the species is truly evergreen.

This is a well marked species, distinguished technically from the other simply pinnate British
Aspleniums by its winged rachis ; and generally by its greater size and more coriaceous texture, this
latter feature giving to it an aspect of massiveness as compared with its size, by which it may be

known at fist sight

This species is easily cultivated in sheltered situations, as in a frame or greenhouse, and thrives
remarkably in a moist stove, It does not bear frost or exposure, and we have found it to be destroyed
by being frozen, even when kept in a close greenhouse, Few of the smaller Ferns are more ornamental,
ог more deserving of cultivation than the Sea Spleemwort. Its fronds, owing to their thick leathery
substance, are long-enduring, and they aro moreover of а deep shining green ; and thus, with very little
care, may be kept clean and bright,—a state which tends greatly to tho preservation of the health of a
eultivated plant, and always adds immeasurably to its beauty and to the attention and interest which it
excites, Hence, for a shady greenhouse, no Fern can be moro appropriately chosen ; while, even for
very sheltered situations outdoors, especially in localities near the sea, the same qualities recom-
mend it

We may take this opportunity to state generally the kind of treatment which has been found to

suit the small evergreen Ferns of this character when under pot culture, ‘The pots in whieh they aro

planted should be of moderate size compared with the plant, that is, their diameter exceeding by two,

or three inches only, the breadth of the erown or mass formed by the caudex. They grow well either in
a soil of turfy peat and silver sand, with a small proportion of friable yellow loam, and liberally inter
mixed with small nodules or fragments of sandstone or porous brick, or in a mixture of which sandy
fibrous loam forms the staple, and in which the coarser materials aro also blended. In either ease, the
bottom of the pots must have a good layer of these latter materials for drainage. The crown should be

kept rather above the surface of the soil, and is perhaps best set between two or three larger somewhat

THE SEA SPLEENWORT

raised pieces of stone or brick. The soil, which should be used when neither wet nor dry, should bo
made firm, being then loss subject to alternations of moisture. Unless the pots become filled with
roots, so that more nourishment is required by the plants—and this is generally evidenced by the
plants drying rapidly compared with others not so eircumstanced-—the less the soil or the plant is
disturbed the better, so long as the former continues in a free healthy state, If it becomes soddened
with water, as sometimes happens from the drainage becoming choked, from eareless watering, or from
the plants standing under a drip, then the plants should be repotted, so as to rectify the evil, No
Ferns, on the other hand, like to be kept dry at tho root ; but they should have such supplies of water
as will keep the soil just moistened thoroughly. A moderately damp and rather shady situation is
‘most congenial to the growth of tho fronds; no situation being more suitable for the progress of the
plants than a cold «ово shady frame or pit, from which frost is just excluded. ‘The plants increase
with tolerable facility by division. When obtained from their wild localities, the roots are often much
damaged in detaching the plants from the rocks to which they cling, and in such cases they require
some care to get them established. It is better in casos of this kind to choose small compact plants in
preference to larger ones. Once established, they grow readily, and may then be increased by dividing

the erowns at the time of repotting, which is best done in spring.

‘There are some very curious variations of this plant now known ; for the most part, however, there
is no evidence of their consta

1. acutum (М). Instead of the usual obtuse or at most bluntly tapering apex of the pins, it is
іп this gradually narrowed to a point ; the pinna being also generally elongated. This form occurs
chiefly in the west of England and in the Channel Islands.

2. dichotomum (W.). An inconstant variation, in which the apex of the frond is forked.

3. ramosum (W.). The chief peculiarity in this variety is that the fronds are branched, or more
frequently paired. The pinnas are undulato-erenate, slightly lobate, with blunt teeth. ‘The venules
appear more clavate than usual. It is a rare form, and was found in 1850 by Mr, Wollaston, in Dorset
shire ; since that time it has retained its character. A similar plant has been sent to us from Totnes,

4. trapeziforme (Clapham). The fronds of this variety aro robust and leathery, the pinnae nearly
trapeziform, imbricate, and crenulate, It was found by Mr. Clapham, at Scarborough, Yorkshire, and is
a permanent form.

5. ermatum (ML). This is remarkable for its short, obtuse, oblique, trapeziform pinnas evenly notched
round the margin with small but deep roundish erenatures, It occurs in а stone quarry, near
Warrington, and has been communicated by Mr. T. б. Rylands,

6. cuneatum (М.). This is peculiar from the absence of the auriculiform projection usual at the
anterior base, the base of the pinnw being truly wedge-shaped ; the pinnee are oblong, with deep sharp.
uneven serratures, It was found by Dr, Allchin at Black Head, Clare, Ireland,

7. microdon (М), This is the most remarkable variety with which we are acquainted, and but for a
repugnance to add to the number of dubious species, we should bo tempted to consider it distinct, Its
chief points of discrepaney are its sub-membranaceous texture, its undulately-lobed pinns, its
denticulated margin, and small patent apiculated teeth ; and its small dispersed. sori, which in their
disposition follow rather the margin than the midrib, and in their shortness and paucity of spore-cases
bear no comparison with those of any British Asplenium at all resembling the present plant, It
resembles A. marínum in its sealy crown, pinnate fronds, and winged rachis, It is not so much
divided as A. Zenceotatum, or A. obovatum, from which also it differs in other respects. We are

inclined to think it will prove really distinct when better known. It is a native of Guernsey, and.

has been found during the past year (1855) first by Miss Wilkinson, and subsequently in other

stations by Miss Mansell, of the Quesne, and Mr. С. Jackson, to the latter of whom we are indebted

for specimens, and for our knowledge of the plant, Mx. Jackson informs us that it grows on

THE SEA SPLEENWORT

banks of rough masonry without mortar, and intermixed with A. Zanceolatum, at some distance
from the sea.
8, assimilo (ML). This form has the acute elongated pinne of acutum, with somewhat the lobing

of sub-bipinnatun, or else is narrow and strongly auriculate; the pinn resembling those of the

Australian A. eaudatum, or the West Indian А. avritwn, It oceurs in two or threo forms in

Sir W. Hooker's collection, the most strongly marked, resembling caudatum, being from Galway

9. sub-bipinnatum (МГ). "The most divided form we have seen,

‘The fronds are of moderate size, but
the pinnze, which stand more distant from the rachis than usual, are deeply pinnatifid throu

Лош, and
the basal anterior lobes, which are tho largest, are almost separate, nearly a narrow oval in outline

simply or doubly serrate on the margin. It was found in a cave at Petit Bot Bay, Guernsey, by

Mrs, Dobree, of the Forest, Guernsey

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Asplenium Trichomanes.

Puer XXXIX

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

(ASPLENIUM TRICHOMANES).

ASPLENIUM, Linnaeus.

cases linear, o

hes (сепи) simple or forked ;

sometimes fureately branch:

A. Trreroxa¥zs; fronds linear pinnate ; pinnae roundish-oblong, roundish-ovate, or
obliquely eunente at the
jout, margined in front wit
narrow ord a herbaceous wing
midrib.

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

Candex short, tufted, sealy, erect or decumbent, Seales lanceolate, brown, cellular, often with a.
dark central stripe, йе wiry, branchin
‘Stipes short, smooth, chestnut-coloured or dark brown, rounded behind, flat in front, with a raised
Jine on the face at each angle; terminal and adherent to the rhizome, Rachis, also chestnut-coloured
rng but rounded behind, flat in front, and furnished with a narrow elevated
ke border
Vernation eiveinnte
Fronds two or three inches to twelve or fourteen inches long, linear, pinnate, Pinar herbaceous,
deep green, variable in shape, but for the most part roundish oblong, obtuse at the apex, and obliquely
cuneate at the base, scarcely stalked, but attached to the rachis by the lower angle, usually erenated
but sometimes nearly entire on the margin, and always entire on the euneate base, Sometimes most
of the pinne, and usually the lower ones, are more ovate in outline and less unequal-sided ; more
rarely the reduction of the upper basal angle gives the pinnae an obovate outline. The рішше are
readily detached from the mature fronds, and eventually fall away, leaving the rachis bare,
Venation consisting of a midvein, from which issue forked veins, terminating within the margin ;
the anterior of the rennles or branches bears the көгін above the point of furcation.
uctification generally distributed over the frond. Sori linear, oblique, numerous, often becoming
confluent, indusiate, Zudusium entire or slightly erenated on the free margin. Spore-cases numerous,
globose. Spores angular, rough.
Duration. Тһе caudex is perennial. ‘The fronds are persistent, so that the plant is evergreen; a

crop of young fronds appear in the spring.

"This species has much resemblance to 4. viride, but may be known by its dark brown rachis, and
the thin raised border of the latter ; and further by the attachment of the pinnae, almost stalkless in

this, and distinetly stalked in A. ride, It does not resemble any other native species,

Tt grows with tolerable facility under culture, but still із very apt to suffer if kept too damp
under confinement. Pure and porous soil containing а considerable proportion of hard material, such

as sand or broken sandstone, bricks, or old mortar, should be used, and excess of moisture must be

avoided. In country rockerics it suecceds when such precautions are taken, but in town gardens it

requires shelter, and then even more eare is necessary to guard against excess of moisture,

In endeavouring to account for the difficulties which occur in cultivating Ferns such as the present,
which sometimes prove to be rather shy growers under artificial treatment, the natural conditions
under which the plant occurs should be well studied. Here is a species abundant enough naturally,
Which oftentimes refuses to maintain its natural vigour under cultivation; and why? In most cases it
will be found that there is something wrong at the foundation ; the roots are suffering. Indeed, this
appears to be the principal source of failure in cultivating the Common MaidenhairSpleenwort. "The

t naturally grows on the perpendicular face of walls or rocks, inserting its roots into the crevices
and fissures where it finds enough nourishment ; or oven when growing on banks the soil is generally
of an open sandy texture, so that water does not stagnate. It should not, therefore, be planted in
large masses of soil retentive of moisture ; the erown should be elevated between fragments of stone ;
the pots should have an extra amount of drainage; and finally, sand, fine broken brick, broken.
sandstone, or the rubbly portions of mortar from old buildings, should be freely used. In short, above
that portion which is kept free for drainage, the pot should be filled up with coarse pieces of brick,
rock, or mortar, and the interstices only filled with finer soil, in which the same ingredients, mixed with
sandy loam, should predominate, This modo of potting is suitable especially for the present species,
the Wall Rue, and the Ceterach. None of these plants, moreover, require so much shade as other

Ferns, although, if they are kept tolerably dry at the crown, they do not refuse to grow in structures,

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT

Which are shaded for others. Water must be applied cautiously ; the crowns or centres of growth
should not be wetted, and the fronds themselves aro the better for being kept dry, although an
occasional syringing, if necessary to cleanse them, will not be found injurious, provided they are
afterwards allowed to dry. The more successful instances we have seen of the cultivation of this Fern,
were in eases in which the atmosphere of the greenhouse was kept rather drier than is usual in Fern
houses ; and this is just what the natural habit of the plant would lead one to expect

Since writing the above, Mr. Wollaston, who is a very successful grower of Ferns, has favoured us

with the following memoranda of his experience with this species. He says it succeeds best with him

planted in sandy loam, with a evry slight admixture of perfectly decayed leaf-mould, over plenty of

drainage, without moss above it, with a free use of water, and free ventilation. “Finding it difficult to
manage,” he writes, “I tested it in the following way. I took six seedlings of A. Trichomanes eristatum
of the same age, and as nearly as possible of the same size, and planted them in pots of the same size,
but all in different admixtures of soil, giving them otherwise the same treatment, That planted in
sandy loam did best, very perceptibly, and that in sandy peat did worst; that in pure leafmould was.
bad also,

Until lately very little variation had been observed in this species ; now, however, several marked
varieties are known, and they, for the most part, scem to have the quality of constancy :—

1. dichotomum (У). "This resembles the normal form in every respect except the dichotomous
division of the apex of the frond, Tt is occasionally met with, but is not constant,

2. bifurcum (W.) is a neat and pretty variety, differing in having the apical lobe frequently enlarged
and always doubly or trebly furcate. It is rare, and constant under culture, It was found near
Maidstone, in Kent.

3. ramosum (W.). This is very much ramified, and is a highly developed form of dichotomum, It
is so nearly constant under cultivation as to claim a place among the permanent varieties. ‘The apical
lobes, as in Difureum, are frequently enlarged and bifid or multifid ; and the rachis is two or three times
forked. When there are many divisions of the rachis, the pinnae are often irregular and depauperated,
and they are often strongly crenato. Tt was found in Devonshire by Potter, a well known dealer, since
dead; again by Dr. Kinahan on Quin Abbey, Clare, Ireland ; and by Mx. Е. Clowes, near Windermere
Westmoreland. А. very beautiful form, analogous to these, but branching lower down the rachis,
has been sent from the neighbourhood of Keswick by Miss Wright; and we have received other fine
examples from Ilfracombe, gathered by the Rev. J. M. Chanter,

4. элиўди (MC). This is ramosely Ы- or tri-dichotomous in the rachis towards the apex of the
frond as in the Inst, but differs in having the apices all multifid-crisped. It is a free-growing handsome
form, and constant, being reproduced from the spores. It was found by Mx. Dick at St. Mary's Isl

ceudbright, and has been communicated by Mr. J, MeNab from the Edinburgh Botanic Garden.

5. eristatum (W.). This very graceful and uncommon form has the apex of the frond beautifully
tufted or tasselled, but it very seldom ramifies in the lower part of the stipes. Tt has a free an
Vigorous habit of growth, and is invariably reproduced from the spores, and constant under cultivation,
Its early history is lost, but some seedling plants made their appearance in a mass of Hymonophylum
unilaterale sent to Mrs. Delves, of Tunbridge Wells, Kent, from the б

6. depauperatum (W.). This peculiar form was found in 1853, by Dr, Allchin, in Clare, in Ireland, and

n in 1855, by Mr. Wollaston, at Rydal, in Westmoreland. The pinnas are very narrow, serrate or

ate, and towards the apex of the frond so depauperated that the spore-cases protrude and appear
to come from the face of the frond, giving the plant a very curious appearance, ‘The apex is sometimes
a more winged rib. It is very rare. Other forms approaching this, but less or scarcely at all depau-
perated, and having the pinnw distinctly erenated, were found at the same place by Dr. Allehi

7. suluequate (N). These resemble the crenated forms just mentioned, but are more equal in the

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT.

pinnio, which are attached near their contro, instead of by the lower angle; the pinna

are oblong
and elegantly erenated, It has been sent to us from the banks of the Wye, near Monmouth, by
Mx. J. D. Enya.

8. Iobatum (М). A large form, remarkable for having the inne, especially those about the middle
of the frond, deeply divided at the base into two or more broad obovate lobes, in somo instances
separated almost to the midrib, It was found in Devonshire by the Rey. J. M. Chanter

9. ineisum (ML). This is by far the most beautiful variety, exactly analogous to the var. cambricum
of Polypodium vulgare, and uniformly barren, ‘The pinnw are deeply pinnatifid, with narrow inciso
serrate segments, It has now been found in several localities : formerly, near Burnley, in Lancashire
by Mr. & Gibson, and im Devonshire, by the Rev. W. В. Hore; subsequently, as we learn, by
Dr. Kinahan, in Clare; and more recently near Settle, in Yorkshire, by Mr. A. Clapham ; and in
Borrowdale, Cumberland, by Miss Wright, It is the rarest of all known varieties, being difficult to

cultivate, and uniformly barren,

Asplenium viride

Prare XL.

THE GREEN SPLEENWORT (Asprexmar үйіре).
ASPLENIUM, Linnaus,

Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblong or clongate, straight, attached along the inner or
terior side of the veins or venules, furnished with an indusium or membranous

cover. Indusium of the same form, entire or somewhat jagged on the margin,

opening along the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation,
Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (eonules) simple or forked |
sometimes furcately branched without a midvein,

A. vine; fronds linear, pinnate; pinne subrotund, roundish-ovate, or rhomboid
cronated, distinctly stalked ; rachis green, with an obtuse elevated green bord
in front, not winged ; sori approximate to the midrib,

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE,

‘Stang, via sper м f f a in congenial son, bt то generally abundant. eia al
Ei йерн) i Webs a и A GIL & Е Ore). Mew sober satin ar pori in th
Spe. Jia sein fud a adit ia Kunesa СШ, Zi), in Тш.
a (Laden) тісше send o Nor West Ашен athe Roky Mouatains (1. eie nd Man D).

Candee tufted, somewhat creeping, sparingly scaly at the crown. Scales lanevolate, dark brown,
cellulose. Fibres slender, branched,

‘Stipes variable, sometimes quite short, usually about a third of the length of the frond, smooth,
dark brown at the base, green upwards, semiterete ; terminal and adherent to the eaudex, Rachie
green, slender, slightly grooved in front.

Vernation citcinate.

Fronds two or three inches to eight or ten inches long, linear, pinnate, Pinna delicately herbaceous,
palish green ; variable in form, usually roundish-ovate, and somewhat cuneate at the base, or more
obliquely cuneate there, thus becoming sub-trapeziform or rhomboidal ; distant, and usually opposite
below, more crowded and alternate above ; attached by а distinet slender stalk, the margin crenated or
inciso-crenato, except at the cuneate base, which is entire, Occasionally the pinnae are equal-sided and
broadest at the base, much shortened and rounded at the apex; and sometimes they are more elongated

1 acute

Venation consisting of a midvein, producing forked reins at the base of the pinnae and simple ones

above ; these veins and venules terminate abruptly within the margin, the point of termination being

THE GREEN SPLEENWORT

marked by an elevation on the upper surface. On the anterior sido of tho vein, opposite the furcation
nnd extending below it when forked, and near to the midrib when the veins are simple, the sori are
produced,

Fruetification more copious on tho upper part of the frond, Sori linear oblique, eontiguous to the
midyein and soon becoming confluent, indusiate. Zndusium narrow, erenated on the free margin.
Spore-cases globose. Spores angular, rough.

Duration. "Tho caudex is perennial, "Tho fronds are produced in spring, and remain fresh through

the winter, the plant thus being evergreen.

Tho йак to A. Trichomanes, this plant, may be distinguished by its green rachis, by its more
delicate herbaecous texture, by the absence of a slender raised border to the anterior face of the rachis,
and by the more central situation of the sori, which are placed rather below than above the fork of the
veins, It is always of a much paler colour

At home on the mountain sides of the north this delicate species does not bear so well as others the
atmosphere of lowland cities. Hence, except in favourable localities not affected by smoke, the plant
will not bear exposure. It is generally found necessary to cultivate it under glass, a cold frame

‘occasionally ventilated, and with the atmosphere moderately moist, being most suitable for it. ‘The soil

should be of a rocky nature, and no stagnant water should be suffered to remain about it, It may be

increased by division.

For pot culture in a moist shady greenhouse or frame, a soil composed of equal parts of loam, peat,
silver sand, and sandstone rock broken wp into Iumps of one or two inches diameter, should be
‘employed, and the pots must be well drained, because, as it is necessary that tho roots should be kept
moist, provision must be made for the free passage of the water applied, so that it may not stagnate.
‘The proportion of rocky material, for which soft broken brick is а passable substituto, may be even
increased. with advantage, the object being to provide for the draining of tho moisture away from
the crowns, whilst it Inves the absorbing fibres of the roots.

In out-door rockeries such species as the present would be benefited by the use of a kind of bell
glass provided with a vent at the top, which may either be opened or closed at pleasure. The use of
such a glass would be to retain something like moist atmosphere about the plants during tho arid
summer months, and to shield the erowns from excess of wet in winter. If the aperture, or apertures,
were but of moderate size both these objects would bo secured without ever closing the glass, and
thus risking another evil which follows mountain plants when brought under artificial culture away

from their pure and airy habitats—that of suffocation from too close confinement.

‘The varieties of this Fern are not numerous. Mr. Wollaston has communicated the following notes -—

1. multifidum (W.) is bifidly or multifdly divided towards the apex of the frond, and is rather more
lax than the usual growth of the species, It is almost as frequent as tho common normal form, and is
ssub-permanent under cultivation.

2. bipinnatum (Clowes), "Tho pinnas of this variety aro deeply incised, very much as in the incised
variety of 4. Zrichomanes ; this however is fertile. It was found on Whitbarrow, in North Lancashire,
by Mr. I. Huddart, in 1853, and was in the possession of Mr. Clowes, of Windermere

3. acıtum (ML). Mr. Newman notices a variety found by the lato Mr. $, Gibson, in which the pinna:

| A. Asplenium Ruta muraria ET NA .germanieum ., С. A. septentrionale

Prare ХИ. 4.

THE WALL RUE OR SPLEENWORT
(ASPLENIUM Rura-murarın.

ASPLENIUM, Linnaus.

Clusters of Spore-enses linear, oblong or elongate, straight, attached along the inner or
anterior side of the veins or venules, furnished with an indusium

y membranous
cover. Indusinm of the

d on tho margin,
opening along the inward sid

or that towards the midvein or axis of venation
‘eins disunited at their extremities, their branches (renules) simple or forked
sometimes fareately branched without a midvein,

A. RUTAMURARIA; fronds deltoid, bi-tri-pinnate ; pinnules obovate, or rhomboid, wedge-
shaped and entire at the base, the anterior margins acute rounded or truncate
toothed ; sori linear, crowded, central : indusium erenulate on the free margin,

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE,

Candex short, thick, tufted, sealy. Scales small, very dark brown, narrow lanceolate, striato-retieulate,
Fibres wivy, branched.

‘Stipes as long as, or longer than the frond, smooth, dark purple at the base, green above

271
smooth, green.

Vernation circinate.

Fronds one to six inches long, numerous; terminal, adherent to the caudex; deep green, sub-corinecons,

often coriaceous, deltoid, bi-tri-pinnate

when young, simple and reniform, or trifoliately pinnate, with

roundish or sub-reniform leaflets, the latter state fertile, Pine alternate, Pinnules obovato or
rhomboidal, tho base wedge-shaped, entire, and tapering into a more or less distinct. petiole, the apex

rounded, or acutely prolonged, or truncate, always toothed, with the teeth small and nearly equal

WALL RUE OR SPLEENWORT

Venation consisting of a series of есіне repeatedly forked from the base, so that there is no distinct
midyein, the number of branches or venules corresponding with the number of marginal ое,

Fructification on the back of the frond, borne on the inner sides of the venules about the centro o

the pinnas Sori linear, fow, sometimes simulating those of Seolopendrium fr

m being nearly opposito,
contiguous, and opening inwardly from each margin ; often becoming confluent. When the plants are
starved, they produce small pinnules and abundant sori, which are confluent over their whole under
Indusinm, a thin marrow membrane, having the free margin wavy or erenulate.
k brown, numerous, roundish, obovato, conrscly reticulate, Spores roundish, strongly muriculate
Duration, "The caudex is perennial, "The fronds are produced in spring and retained through the

winter, until after fresh ones appear, so that the Fern is evergreen,

‘The usual states of this species are easily recognised, the characters of deltoid outline, bipinnate division,
and distinct euneate pinnules, taken together with the small size of the entire fronds, serving to distinguish
these from the Aspleniums, ‘There are, however, states of the plant which are not easily separated
‚germanieum, being narrow in the fronds or pinnules, and sometimes scarcely more than pinnate
These states are best distinguished by the erenulate indusium, and by the fine denticulations of the upper
margin, the apex of the pinnules in A. germanicum having fewer, deeper, and more unequal incisions,
Some cultivators sueeced well with this plant, but it is not generally found easy of culture. Those
succeed best who keep their Ferns drier than usual. The Wall Rue requires a very porous soil of sandy
loam, with a large proportion of old mor 1 fragments of soft brick, and to have the watering-pot
applied very cautiously to the soil, and perhaps never to the leaves, The plants, too, ought to have an.
open or elevated site, especially if in a house or frame, so that they may be continually parting with the

moisture supplied to them, They inerease by division.

A few variations of this species have been noticed. They are as follow :—

1. multifidum (УТ). This produces occasionally а few dichotomous fronds, but the plant is not
entirely dichotomous, nor is it constant under cultivation.

2. eristatum (Wo). This is permanent, and nearly all the fronds are affected ; some are crowded or
tasselled at their apices ; others have their apical lobes, as it were, folded on each other, and the rachis
is not unfrequently divided. ‘The pinnules vary somewhat in nearly every plant. It has been found by
Dr. Allehin near Guildford, in Surrey, and by Mr. Wollaston near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, and is rare

proliferum (W.), is a proliferous form of the foregoing ; the young plants protrude through the
epidermis, or are seated at the axils of the pinnules, It was found sparingly mingled with the last.

4. dissechum (W.). This is of very elegant habit; the pinnules are deeply incised and elongated. It
bas been found by Mz, Wollaston in Devonshire, and by Dr. Kinahan in Ireland, and is not common.

‘exneatum (М). This form, which comes from Stenton Rock, is often mistaken for A. germanicum ;
it is scarcely more than pinnate, with narrow рішше cuneate below, truncate above, The texture,
however, is stouter than in A. gormanicum, the parts broader, and the apical teeth, unlike those of that

ies, are small and equal. Another similar form from the same place is rather more divided, and less
truneate ; specimens similar to this last have been found by Dr. Allehin at Town Malling, Kent, and
by Miss Wright, at Keswick. A still narrower but analogous form has been found by Mr. Wilson in
Dovedale, and by Dr. Allchin at Ennis,

6. pinnatom (М). А pinnate variety, with several rhomboidal pinnw, stalked, and. erenato-dentate
in the upper or larger half. It was found by Dr. Allehin at Mucruss,

7. unilateralo (M.). "This was found with the last. It is one-sided in its growth, developing a normal
pinna on one side, the rest of the frond being confused, and the rachis often exeurrent and hooked at the
point ; sometimes the pinna becomes an enlarged branch, "The whole growth is irregular and monstrous,

A somewhat similar form has been gathered by Mr, Barrington, at Black Head, Clare, Irel

Рите XLI. n.
THE ALTERNATE-LEAVED SPLEENWORT
(ASPLENIUM. GERMANICUM).
ASPLENIUM, Lines

Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblong or elongate, straight, attached along the inner or
anterior side of the veins or venules, furnished with an indusium or membranous

cover. Judusium of the same form, entire or somewhat jagged on the татын,

openin, the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation

Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (волны) simple or forked

times furcately branched without a midvein

А. оламат, fronds linear oblong, broadest at tho base, pinnate or sub-bipinnato ;
pinnae alternate, ascending, narrow wedge-shaped, toothed at the apex, entire

below, the lower ones threo-dleft ; sori elongate central ; indusium entire

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Candex tufted, short, thickish, scaly. Seales small, narrow lanceolate, dark brown, striato-reticulate

Fibres slender, branched.
‘Stipes terminal and adherent to tho caudes, slender, nearly, often quite, as long as the frond, dark

purplish brown below, green above, and as well as the rachis smooth.

Vernation cireinate
fonds from two to six inches high, narrow, linear oblong, somewhat broadest at the base, pinnate
subbipinnate, or, when very luxuriant, bipinnate below, palish green, scarcely subcorinceous. Pina
alternate, ascending, remote, the lower ones largest and most developed ; in small plants narrow-obovate

THE ALTERNATE-LEAVED SPLEENWORT.

ог euneate, cut into two or three narrow lobes, the lobes simple or toothed, the apex unequally toot
the base tapering into a kind of petiole ; in the larger specimens more distinctly stalked, and sometimes

cidedly bipinnate with one distinet cuneate pinnule, The upper pinna are less and less lobed, but
‘unequally toothed at the apex, which is blunt, and they are falcately curved inwards. The apex of
the frond consists of several coalescent narrow lobes

Venation consisting of from two to four series of furcate divisions of the ecin which constitutes the
vascular bundle of the footstalk, without a midvein, a гелий extending to each of the teeth, so that the
pinnule is occupied by from two to five or six flabellately-forked nearly parallel venules,

ification on the back of the frond oceupying all the pinnae. Sori linear elongate, on two or

threo of the central venules, opening inwardly from each margin, at length confluent. /ndusium а
thin narrow membrane with the margin entire or somewhat wavy. Spore-cases obliquely obovate,
brown. Spores roughish or muriculato, roundish-oblong.

Duration, Тһе caudex is perennial. "The plant is evergreen or sub-overgreen, the fronds being more

or less persistent

This plant, though almost invariably kept distinct by writers on Ferns, has often, by the same per
which has so placed it, been marked as a suspicious species, having a supposed relation either to the
Wall Rue, or the Forked Spleenwort. Without doubt it stands intermediate between these, but seems
to us perfectly distinet. Те is а subbipinnate form of the Wall Rue (var. cuneatum), only, wh
resembles it, and that is altogether a thicker and stouter plant, not lobed as this is, and with the apico-
‘marginal teeth much more uniform. The Forked Spleenwort is much more coriaceous and less leafy,
its lobes being in truth rather rachiform than foliaceous, and its teeth, when present, very different
being rather of the nature of distant linear fragments split away from the margin, than serratures,
which the few teeth of 4. germanicum more nearly resemble.

‘This rare Fern is one which does not thrive under cultivation, except with careful management. If
potted in porous soil, with the crown well elevated and covered by а bell-glass in a shaded frame, or put
in a warm close house or pit without a bell-glass, it will generally grow with vigour ; but the plants are

very liable to perish in winter, ‘The safeguard is, not to allow water to reach their crowns; to keep their

roots just moderately moist, and not to suffer the bell-glasses, employed to protect them from the ris

of being wetted, to injure them by retaining a constantly damp atmosphere, which they will do if they
are kept permanently closed. ‘The plan of using glasses, with a couple of small apertures opposite each
other, as vents, near the top, so successfully adopted by Mr. Clowes in cultivating Zymenophyllum, would.
no doubt be found congenial to these difficult mountain Aspleniums. ‘The plants may be increased

by dividing the erowns.

XLI.

THE FORKED SPLEENWORT

(AsPLENIUM SEPTENTRIONALE).

ASPLENIUM, Linnaeus,

Clusters of Spore-cases linear, oblong or elongate, straight, attached along the inner or
anterior side of the veins or venules, furnished with an indusium or membranous
cover. Tndusium of the same form, entire or somewhat jagged on the margin,
opening along the inward side, or that towards the midvein or axis of venation,
Veins disunited at their extremities, their branches (телибез) simple or forked ;
sometimes fureately branched without a midvein

A. ezerENTRIDNAE fronds linear, simple, or two- or thrve-cleft ; or forked, with linear

cleft divisions; segments alternate, ascending, elongate and rachiform, with a
few deep narrow distant teeth ; sori few, elongate, often parallel ; indusium

entire

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th ft Vgl, Compendium Fore Germen i 24 (ой).

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

ттк XLL C— Ases sr

into; 4 7. Sue. 3, ш Ш

Cauder short, thick, tufted, often forming large dense se ‘Scales small, narrow lanceolate,

dark brown, striato-reticulate, Fibres numerous, wiry, branched.
‘Stipes terminal, adherent to the caudex, dark brown-purple at the baso, green above, as long as, or
y than the frond.

Vernation circinate

Fronds from two to six inches high ; sometimes simple, and then either entire or with a few distant

1 subulate teeth appearing as if split away from the main portion, or divided into two or three

narrow-linear alternate ascending lobes ; sometimes forked, with tho two divisions either simple, toothed,

or lobed on the same plan as the simple fronds, They are numerous, deep green ; the simple ones

THE FORKED SPLEENWORT.

narrow, linear, tapering towards both ends; the forked ones indefinite in form, and apparently onc

sided, one of the divisions being smaller than the other, and looking like а lateral branch without a
balancing branch from the other side of the rachis, The lobes are sometimes so much separated as to
look like distinet pinnae

Venation consisting of two or three series of fureato divisions of the rein which enters from the
base, one of the venules extending to each of the teeth, there being no midvein.

Fructification on the back of the frond. Sort linear, elongate, on the inner side of two or three of
the few venules, and opening towards the contro ; towards the apices they are often opposite and con-
tiguous almost as in Scolopendrium in consequence of the narrowness of the parts; and being crowded
with numerous spore-cases, they become confluent, and appear to be universal as in Aerastichum, but
these are mere similarities. Zndusiwn linear, entire. Spore-cases roundish-obovate, dark-brown,
‘Spores, roundish-oblong, slightly muriculate.

Duration. ‘The caudex is perennial. ‘The fronds are persistent; the plant is, therefore, an

This plant may be distinguished at first sight by its tufted grassy aspect, From its ally A.germanieum,
which some botanists would consider a variety of it, the Forked Spleenwort may be known by its fronds
being cithor simple, with mere lobes, or forked with two distinet branches, each like its own smaller
fronds, and never being regularly pinnate as is A. germanieum. It is also narrower in its parts, with
the texture thicker and less leafy

As in the case of the allied species, many persons fail to cultivate this Fern with success. ‘The
failure probably arises from the use of fine soil in too largo masses, Naturally this is a rupestral plant
and this condition should be imitated hy its being planted among masses of porous sandstone, in the
interstices of which only, а little sandy soil should be placed. It would no doubt be also an advantage to
plant somewhat horizontally rather than too strictly vertical ; and to allow the upper fragment of stone
employed, to be large enough to serve as a shade to the crown from the sun's rays, these latter in.
summer acting too powerfully on the soil contained in small pots. ‘This amount of shade would admit
of the plants being kept in a more exposed situation than is usually safe, from the cause just referred.
to; and thus the evils arising from close dampness and want of ventilation would be remedied. ‘The
exposure, however, must be modified judiciously: for instance, a greenhouse where the atmosphere
is dried and moistened daily, would probably be found congenial; or a cold frame well aired, and
slightly shaded, might with advantage be substituted for the eloser frame and denser shade, which is
more usual. Certainly many Ferns do not need so much shade as is given in a general collection, to suit
the more tender kinds; and the partial shade afforded by а lump of stone on the sunny sido of the
crown of a small Fern would be more congenial to many of the mural or rupestral species, than
а more general exclusion of the sun's rays. Mr, Watson notices that the young fronds aro easily

damaged by frost.

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BRADBURY

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PRINTED BY

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NATURE

Prare XLII.

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERN
(SCOLOPENDRIUM VULGARE).

SCOLOPENDRIUM, Smith.

Clusters of Spore-cases linear or oblong, straight, growing in proximate parallel pairs,

on the anterior and posterior branches of adjacent. fascicles of veins, indusiate
Indusivm linear, attached to the venules on opposite sides of the proximate вон,
the free margins face to face, at first conniving, at length separating down the
entre of the twin sorus, which becomes confluent into а broadly-lincar mass,
Veins two- or three-times forked, from the prominent midvein ; senules parallel

disunited at their apices, which are club-shaped, (rarely anastomosing below),

8. үле; fronds very variable; normally brondly-linear or oblong strap-shaped,

entire at the margin, attenuate at the apex, cordate at the base, smooth or
tly hair-sealy on the midrib beneath ; stipes shaggy, with narrow scales,

POLYSOIIDAS; fronds linear strap-shaped, subtruncate at the base, the m:
distantly lobed, and irregularly erenate; fertile.

comrvrom; fronds strap-shaped, erenated or lobate, usually obtuse, with the
midrib excurrent below the apex, forming a horn projecting from either surface
wanorxarox; fronds linear strap-shaped, truncato at the base, the margin inciso-
lobate, the epidermis of the under surface, near the margin, developed into a
lobed excurrent membrane, whieh, as well as the frond itself, bears sori

сиври; fronds strap-shaped, the margins undulated, the base strongly aurieulato:
cordate ; usually barren,

эпллтими; fronds irregular, usually many-times fureately divided, the divisions
plano or variously erisped ; usually fertile ; stipes sometimes ramose

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERN.

Var. xacenarox; fronds strap-shaped, or broadly ovate (on same plant), the margin
deeply inciso-lobate, the lobes unequally prolonged, sometimes erisped ; apex
multifid-crisped ; basal pair of lobes sometimes much enlarged, and multitid
егізрей at their apex

Caudex thick, short, tufted, often decumbent, sealy at the crown, Seales lanevolate-acuminate
pale purplish-brown, shining, finely retienlato-venose. Fibres short, branched, numerous, dark brown,

Stipes averaging about one-third the length of the frond, but varying from about one-fourth to
one-half its entire length; usually clothed with pale tawny contorted subulate scales, sometimes
smooth, purplish-brown, darkest at the baso; terminal, and adherent to the eaudex. Rach, or more
correctly midrib, stout, scaly behind when young, often dark-coloured below

Vernation circinate

Fronds from about four inches to two feet or upwards in length, narrow elongate-lanevolate, or

broadly linear, or oblong strap-shaped, normally entire, or slightly sinuous on the margin, with the

apex more or less attenuated, and terminating in an acute point, and having the base cordate ; plane

fleshy or coriaceous, deep rich green. The varieties deviate in unnumbered forms, by the Incoration or
undulation of the margin, the multifid dilatation of the apex, the branching (often repeated) of the
stipes and midrib, the loss of the cordate lobes at the base, and the arrest of longitudinal development,
Venation parallelo-tureate ; that is, the reins which spring from the midrib are one, two, or three
times forked near the base ; and the reinlets thus produced extend side by sido nearly to the margi
and almost at а right angle, terminating in club-shaped apices. In the enlarged base of the frond,

the fureations are more numerous,

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERN

Fructifation dispersed over the back of the frond,* most abundant upwards, Sor; linear, oblique

unequal in length, twin, that is, growing in pairs, the two contiguous parallel sori borne on the posterior

and anterior veinlets of adjacent fascicles of veins, and becoming confluent into one broad linear m

Indwsium also double, narrow, entire, the two opening face to face, at first conniving, at length separating

down the centre of the twin sorus, finally pushed back and hidden by the spore-eases, Spore-cases

numerous, obovate, reddish-brown, Spores roundish or oblong, muriculate
Duration, ‘The eaudex is perennial. The fronds are persistent; the young ones being produced in

April, and remain long after others succeed them ; the plant is therefore strictly evergreen

"The common Harts-Tongue is at once known from all other British Ferns by its long strap-shaped
sueculent-looking fronds; and technically by its linear twin sori. Its varieties are endless. Those we
have thought deserving of botanical recognition aro to be considered rather as types of variation
than as individual forms, comprising a series of analogous subvarieties, which, however, being perma
nent and easily cultivated, are individually prized as garden ornaments, We omit any lengthened
description of them on this account, and also because they will be included in the following notes
on the whole of the forms or subvarieties at present known, which have been obligingly drawn up by
Mr. Wollaston, of Chislehurst, whose own collection contains one of the most extensive series of them.
The principal private collections of living Scolopendriums, known to us, besides that just mentioned, are
those of Dr. Allchin, of Bayswater; Mr. Gray, of Hammersmith; Mr. Clapham, of Searborough
Mr. James and Mr. Jackson, of Guernsey ; the Rev. J. M, Chanter, of Ilfracombe; and Sir W. С.
Trevelyan, of Nettlecombe ; to whom, and to many other correspondents, we are indebted for specimens.

1. polyschides (Ray). This old and familiar variety, known to the illustrious Ray, and named in
allusion to the numerous deep incisions on the m: known also amongst gardeners
under the name of angustifolium, in allusion to its narrow fronds—is taken as the type of a group in
which the fronds are more or less incised on their margins, but not in the least degree marginate, (that.
is, having the epidermis disrupted). "The fronds in this variety are linear strap-shaped, slightly undulate
irregularly erenato-lobate, with the margin erenately-toothed ; it is fertile, and the masses of spore
eases often protrude between the incisions to the face of the frond. ‘The venation is here and there
reticulate. It is remarkably constant under cultivation, and universally reproduces itself from its
spores. Its carly history is lost. The lato Mr. D. Cameron found it near Bristol ; form almost
identical has been met with by the Rev. J. М. Chanter, near llfracombe, Devonshire; and Sir У.
Hooker has a specimen from Lismore.

macrosorum (Féo) is similar to polysehides, but the fronds are somewhat broader, and the margin
is more frilled with an undulated series of bluntish teeth, which are deeper and more evident than in the
variety just named. It has the some kind of deep occasional incisions, but they are less manifest, being.
hidden by the undulation of the margin ; the base is truneate: the venation is normal, and the sori
short oblong. ‘The best grown form is of exotic origin, having been received from Bolwyllor, but a very
similar one has been found in Guernsey, in 1855, by Mx, James, It is quite constant, and very neat,

3, Jissum (ML) is а lange, vigorous, and graceful form, in character resembling the two preceding, but
the fronds are larger and broader, and usually blant-ended ; the margin is deeply incised and somewhat.
undulate, so that the incisions aro not very evident, the whole being crenately toothed : the veins are
slightly netted ; and the sori grow in oval-oblong masses, It was found near Nettlecombe in Somer
shire, in 185 jr W. С. Trevelyan, and similar forms have been gathered near Denbigh, by

itchard ; and in Guernsey by Mr, C, Jackson. It is permanent, handsome, and rather rare.

THE COMMON HARTSTONGUE FERN

4. obtusidentatum (ML), A very pretty dwarlish narrow-fronded variety, having the margin shallowly
sometimes deeply lobed, the lobes frequently separated by broad sinuses, and the whole notched with
nearly uniform blunt eonspieuous tecth ; the apex is usually blunt, the midrib not reaching the end ; the
sori are longish masses irregularly placed. Found near Ilfracombe, in 1859, by the Rev. J. M. Chanter:

5, subcormetum (Тай). "The peculiarity of this variety js its rigid coriaceous texture and upright
habit. It resembles denticulatun (8) in the small even toothing of the margin ; but the fronds are more
incised or lobate ; they also terminate abruptly, and the rachis protrudes near the apex and forms a

horn or hook on the under side. ‘The fronds are sometimes fureate ; sori few, seattered. Мг. A, Tait of

Edinburgh, first noticed it in the nursery of Mr. Sang, at Kirkaldy

6. cornutim (ML) is a very beautiful, as well as curious variety ; the fronds are eoriaccous, somewhat.
undulate, erenate or deeply lobed, the lobes scarcely toothed ; they also usually terminate abruptly, the
rachis projecting from the face, forming а long hook or horn, from which it takes its name, It fruits
plentifully, and is a thoroughly constant variety, invariably reproduced from its spores, It was found
in Yorkshire by Mr. Thorne, and probably elsewhere, as it is not uncommon in collections.

imperfectum. (W.) is remarkable for the unfinished appearance of the margin of the frond,
which is entire, as though cut away as far in as tho sori. It was found in north Lancashire by
Mr, Wollaston, in 1895, and promises to be a constant form. ‘The fronds are linear, strap-shaped,
somewhat irregular, truncate at the base, sometimes abrupt and sub-cornute at the apes.

В. denticulatwn (УГ). This is of exotic origin, having been found near Geneva by the Rev
Ж.Н. Hawker, but is so likely to be found in this country, or so certain to be raised from spores, that it
is here included. ‘The plant is dwarf in habit, the frond ramose, denticulate, and occasionally incised
sometimes abrupt at the apex. Аз yet it has not fruited, but it is constant

9. stenophyllun (М). A very narrow linear form, cordate at the base, with broad shallow entire

jenatures nearly to the point; sori normal beneath, with numerous small roundish sori near the
win above, It was found in Guernsey by Mr. J. James, of Vanvert.

10. erenato-lobatwn (M.). An elegant form, normal in size and general outline, but the margin,
especially in the upper half, is strongly erenato-lobate sometimes a little undulated. It is very distinctly
suprasoriferous, the upper sori often largo and distinct like the lower, It appears to be a frequent form,
and has been found in Devonshire by the Rev, J. М. Chanter; Saltwood, Kent, by Mr, F. Brent
Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson ; and Dorsetshire by Mr, Wollaston, It is sometimes very slightly
marginate.

11. turgidum (W.)—so called from the thick or muddy appearance of the cellular tissuo—is sub-

nate, The fronds, which are from six to eight inches long, are normal in outline, irregularly erenate
or sub-lobate, and fleshy ; the venation irregular and oecasionally reticulate. It is quite distinet from all
other varieties, and permanent under cultivation, Tt was found in Sussex, in 1854, by Mr. Wollaston,

12, resectum (ML) is so called from the absence of the usual auriculato lobes at the base of the frond;
in other respects it resembles sinwatum (13) and inceguale (14), being irregular in width and development
It was found in Sussex, in 1854, by Mr. Wollaston, and is constant.

13. sinnatum (W.) differs from the ordinary form in having the margin of the frond (which is
occasionally multifid) sinuate, the lobe-like sinuosities being irregular in development, entire or
obscurely cronato. "The venation is slightly confused in the contracted parts ; but the sori are nor
Found in Sussex by Mr. Wollaston in 1854, and in Yorkshire by Mr. Clapham ; and is constant

14. inayuale (A). This handsome variety has the margin of the frond deeply incised, and distinetly

and unequally lobed, sub-pinnatifid ; the apex generally multifid fimbriate j fructiications copious and

irregular, Tt was found in Ireland by Dr. Allchin in 1853, and is a constant and a rare plant
15. eoriaeown (James). A dwarf form, very remarkable when fresh for its coriaceous texture, It is
, generally abrupt, slightly marginate, sparingly and irregularly soriferous,

the sori on the under or upper surfaco, or actual edge of the frond. Found in Guernsey by Mr, James.

16. laciniatum (W.). A handsome variety, in which irregular portions of the frond are contracted

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERX

(езе portions having the short distinct teeth or the shallow lobes of the polyschides type, while here and
there other portions grow out to the normal width, and form blunt, rounded, or oblong projecting lobes,
or entire normal spaces of greater length. Sometimes the apex, or the base, or one side only, of the
frond is affected ; the example figured showing an instance in which the altered portions are less broken
up than usual, Searecly two fronds aro alike, but the fronds are nearly always affected. It has been
found in North Lancashire by Mr. Wollaston, in Yorkshire by Mr, Clapham, and in Devonshire by thé
Rev.d. М. Chanter К

7. irregulare (М). This is one of those unaccountable freaks of nature which is at ono time in its
natural growth, and then in its most fantastic; or the two conditions may be combined on the samo
plant. The abnormal fronds are irregularly lobate, with crenated or incised lobes, somewhat undulato,
often forked, and altogether irregular. It is but sparingly fertile in the abnormal state. It was found
in Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson, and is only a sub-permanent form.

18. corrugutum (W.) presents a combination of the characteristics of earíabile (39) and crispum (46)
having fronds beautifully undulated, but also deeply cut into auriculate lobes on the margin, in a very
irregular manner. ‘The venation is slightly reticulate. Found in Sussex by Mr. Wollaston in 1654,

19. pocilliferum QL), А large irvegularly-lobed form, stout and rigid in texture, often forked, and
somewhat supra-marginate ; its chief. peculiarity, however, is the production on its under surface,
of irregularly-placed cup-shaped or rather trumpetshaped excrescences, frequently a quarter of an inch
in length. Tt was sent to us from Guernsey by Mr. J. James, of Vanvert

20, submarginatum (W.). This form comprises several modifications, in which the fronds, various
in character, sometimes bifureate, moro rarely ramose, axe only partially marginate: the perfect
fronds are submarginate, that is, with their margins partially disrupted, erenato-lobate, especially
towards the apex, supra-soriferons; the imperfect fronds sometimes similar to the perfect ones on one
side of the rachis, and on the other narrow and trobly dentate ; others are truncate, submarginato,
and obliquely comute ; and others again abortive, having nothing but a short scaly stipes without any
of the leafy portion, This form was found in Sussex, in 1854, by Mr. Wollaston ; in Ireland by Dr.
Allchin ; in Guernsey, by Mr. C. Jackson; and in the Isle of Wight, by Mr, В. Bloxam.

sieiforme (W). This is, perhaps, the most slightly marginate of the varieties referred to the
maryinatum group. Тһе fronds, which are rarely a foot long, aro lance-shaped, laterally waved or
subflexuose, slightly crenate, and obsoletely, though continuously, marginate beneath. They are also
supra-soriferous, that is, the fructification protrudes itself to the face of the frond, but the upper sori
aro very small Tho base of the frond is rarely aurieled, and the whole plant has a vory unusual
appearance, It was found in Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson, in 1854, and is doubtless a constant form.

mnicrodon (ME) is а small form, possessing many of the characteristics of submarginatum (20),
but having the apex of the frond multfid. Its chief peculiarity is the minutely sulcate portion of the
frond immediately below the forking. Found in Ireland by Dr. Allchin, in 1853, and quite constant,

contract (W.). This variety resembles sulmarginatım (20) in size and in its submarginate frond,
nd miorodon (22) in its multifd apex, Tt has been named contvactum on account of having its fronds
drawn in or waist-like just below their densely-multifid apices; the mass of veins which have to

pass this contracted portion, become protruded or ridged, giving that part the appearance of being

supra-lincate. "This also was found in Clare, Ireland, by Dr. Allehin, in 1893, and is permanent,

24. marginatwn (ML). "Thisis the type and most remarkable form of the marginato group, and although
Dut recently noticed, must have been long known, as a garden specimen received from the younger Linnsous
is in Sir J. E. Smith's Herbarium, Several subforms aro known in cultivation, of which the most marked
in character is thus described in our Handhook of British Ferns: "Tho fronds grow егесі a foot or
more in height, and stand in a cirelo round the crown; they aro simple strap-shaped, the margin
irregularly lobed, tho under surface producing within the margin an excurrent membrane, which is also

lobed. Both surfaces of this membrane, and the under surface of the frond itself exterior to it, are

THE COMMON HARTE-TONGUE FERX

soriferous. The fronds have therefore, as it were, a double margin. Tn the less perfectly developed

condition the membrane is reduced to a longitudinal vein-like ridge.” ‘This variety was

und near
Notilecombo, in Somersetshire, by Mr. Elworthy, gardener to Sir W. С. Trevelyan, and sub

near Selworthy, in the same county, by Mrs, Archer Thompson. It has since been gathered in Sussex,
by Mr. Gray and Mr. Wollaston ; and still moro recently in the Isle of Wight, by Mr. Қ. Bloxam
in Devonshire, by the Rev. J. М. Chanter (several forms) ; and at Enys Penryn, in Cornwall, by Mr. G.
Dawson. A narrow form has been found near Brecon, by Mr. J.R. Cobb. There is also a plant of this
character, with multifid apices, in the possession of Mr. Wollaston, which was sold to him in 1849 by
Potter, a well-known dealer (now dead), the history of which cannot be traced ; from this the variety
proliferum (25) has been raised, as well as plants exactly resembling the original

25, proliferum (W.). ‘This curious little monstrosity, as before stated, was raised from the spores of
the multifid marginatum (24) in 1851, and the plants now in 1856 (with the exception of those that have
been grown in heat), are of the most pigmy dimensions, the largest not having attained three inches in

th. ‘The fronds in general outline are either small strap-shaped, truncate, ealyciform, cornute, or

e, but all, with the exception of the last, are deeply and irregularly manginate, almost to the
dividing of the frond in two, ‘The excurrent membrane is the same as in the last described, but more
developed in proportion, and the upper surface of the frond is irregularly verrucose, Hitherto there
has nover been any appearance of fructification, but in Шеш thereof curious little bul cysts
have appeared on the surface of the frond, proceeding generally from those parts where the spiracles or
breathing tubes terminate. ‘These form minute plants exactly the counterpart of the parents, ‘This
bulbil-making process Mr, Wollaston thinks is more or less common to all, when from some unknown
cause the normal mode of propagation fails, ‘This variety is becoming not uncommon,

26. fmbriatum (Allehin). ‘This unique variety is connected by easy steps wit
bears two sorts of fronds besides the usual hooks and points peculiar to this
threo-quarters of an inch in breadth, and from six to nine inches in 5 the margins irregularly filled,
twice erenato-lobate, undulate ; the sori rarely pass the exeurrent membrane, which is the same as in other
marginate forms. ‘The second sort of frond is very narrow, about a quarter of an inch wide, and from

inches to upwards of a foot in length, and moro nearly resemble a winged rachis than a frond, the
leafy part on either side being about the same width as the rachis itself; the margins are the same as
the others, but more minutely divided, and the disrupted. membrane recedes even to the rachis itself.
It isa very neat and curious variety, and was found by Dr. Allchin in Guernsey in 1849,

27. bimarginatum (УУ). One of the most curious and raro varieties known. "he fronds are linear
strap-shaped, sometimes multiid, about a quarter of an inch wide, and nearly a foot long; some also
are three quarters of an inch wide, and from six to nine inches long. On the under sido the excurrent
membrane appears as in other marginate forms; but besides this, on the upper surface of the frond, the
cuticle is gathered and puckered up into cavities and nodules ; and some of the lower veinlets form
most remarkable calyeiform stipitate expansions with trumpet-shaped mouths, ‘The stipes and part of the
rachis are covered with hair-like scales, It seems а very tender variety, affected by the least frost, and
very rarely perfects its spores, It was found near Rotherham, in Yorkshire, about five years ago, by
Mr. Н. Hayling, under gardener to the Rev. W. Hudson, of St. Catherine's, Regent's park, and was
exhibited at the Horticultural Society's Rooms, in Regent-strect, by Mr, В. Kennedy of Covent Garden.

28. seabrum (W.). "The fronds of this variety resemble the wider fronds of Dimarginatum (27), but are
even much wider and longer, and the whole plant is of more vigorous growth. The face of the frond is
more rugoso and not quito so much drawn into cavities. The margins are irregularly jagged,
particularly towards the apex of the fronds. Unlike the other it is abundantly fertile, It was found
in Ireland, in 1853, by Dr. Allehin, and is a singular and rare variety

39. constrictum. (ME). This curious form, has not been proved, but is so remarkable as to deserve

recording. ‘The fronds are medium-sized. the upper half broad, and scarcely differing from the normal

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERN

state ; the lower half equally contracted to loss than half tho width, deeply erenated, and marginato,
the extrem it again broad so as just to develope the usual cordate lobes; both sides being
uniformly affected throughout, and strongly marginato in the contracted parts. Found by Mr. J. James
in Guernsey,

30. supralineatum (М1) differs from the rest of the marginate group in having the excurrent membrane
confined to the face or upper surface of the frond. ‘There are several forms of this variety, some with
buta small portion of each frond, others with one side only, and others with one or more fronds on a
plant, affected. The most marked form (which was obtained from Epernay) has the whole plant

ected more or less, and when perfect is a very beautiful object. The general outline of the frond
is strap-shaped, sometimes but not often multifid; about eight inches long; the margins beautifully
but irregularly corrugate till they meet the excurrent membrane, which forms a slightly sinuous line on

«ach side of the rachis, reaching in a well-marked frond from the apex to the base ; the whole thus

having the appearance of a narrow frond of the normal form superimposed on tho variety eriypum, Tt

was first brought into notice in this country by Mr. В. F. Gray ; and analogous forms have subsequently
been found in Surrey by Dr. Allehin; in Yorkshire by Ме, A. Clapham; in the Isle of Wight by
Mr. R. Bloxam; in Devonshire by the Rev. J. M. Chanter; in Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson ; and in
Hampshire and Sussex by the Rev. W. Н. Hawker and Mr. б. В, Wollaston, It is a raro variety

31. multiforme (W.). This most remarkable and compound form, embraces within itself the poculi
arities of nearly every known form of variation, Its fronds are multi, ramose, cornute, subulate,
either simple or multifid, marginato, supralincar, corrugate, laciniate, or depauperato, and cannot be
better described than by a reference to the varieties indicated by the above epithets It was found in
Guernsey by Dr. Allchin in 1849, and is a permanent form, and not now very uncommon.

32. muricatum (ML). ‘The type of another class of variation, in which the upper surface is developed
into ridges or raised points, In this the fronds aro normal in outline, coriaceous, the margin here aud
there lobed, or slightly sinuous, but the tissue is sunk between the veins producing evident furrows, and
the veins themselves bear two or three elevated points, these points being scattered rather plentifully
over the whole frond, Т was found in Guernsey, and sent to us by Mr. J. James of Vanvert

33. jugosum (М). Also found in Guernsey, and communicated by Mr. James and Mr. ©. Jackson.
"Two or three modifications have been met with. Its peculiarity resides in a thickening of the veins.
which bear sori, resulting in the production of a series of ridges or leafy sorus-like excrescences on the
upper surface, and opposite to the sori on the lower surface, producing а curious ridgy appearance,

34. papillosum QU). This curious variety dovelopes a series of distinct wart-like exereseences side by
side, above, on the veins, near their apices, and forming a border to the upper surface of the fronds, which
latter in the specimens wo have seen are small, and rather narrow, but of normal outline, It was sent
from Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson

rugosum (Allchin). "This variety is marginato at the apex ; the leafy portion of the frond is very
short in comparison with the stipes; it is undulate, crenate, and on the rachis almost echinate, and at
the apex has a curious irregularly-shaped pocket or pouch, formed by the splitting of the epidermis
The pouch is fertile, as well as other portions of the frond, and has the rachis generally in its under
cuticle. The stipes is very long and thinly clothed with scales. It was found in Ireland by Dr. Allchin
in 1853, and is a permanent and exeoedingly rare form.

36. nudicaule (Allchin), This resembles rugowm (35) in many respects, but the fronds aro more
variable in form and less rugoso ; some being pockoted, somo simple, and others multifid. But the great

ity of this form is the almost total absenco of seales—so unusual in Seolopendrtum. "This is зо
vious in its vernation, that the convolutions of the fronds, which are to be developed for several years
me, are visible on the crown, This also was found by Dr. Allehin in Ireland, and is very rare.

37. peraferum (W.). This is akin to rugosum (35) and nudicaule (30), in having a pouch-bearing apex.

Tt has a sealy stipes, and the fronds are undulate and irregular when in character, but they are

THE COMMON HARTSTONGUE FERN

occasionally normal. ‘The pocket is fertile. This is likewise of Trish origin ; it was found by Dr. Allehín
ıd has continued constant.

38. abruptum (ҮҮ). The peculiarity of this variety consists in the midvein or rachis rarely reaching
to the apex of the frond, which is blunt and rounded, It also occasionally divides at the summit, In
other respects it is normal. It was found in Sussex by Mr, Wollaston, in 1854, and is only a sub.
permanent variety de hose of the next variety

39. variabile (W.). ТІ its name implies, has fronds of various shapes and sizes, Tt is a
vigorous coarse-growing Fern, and constant under cultivation, ‘The fronds are either normal, branched,
reniform, or bisreniform, abrupt, and often partially or wholly unite two forms on one stipes. It is
abundantly fertile, and has been found in Guernsey by Dr. Allehin, and Mr. С. Jackson. Another
closely allied form, which Mr. Wollaston calls direniforme, connccts this with the last. Та this the stipes
generally bears two kidney-shaped lobes ; sometimes the fronds are only forked, the divisions crossing
xt the apex ; occasionally they are branched, each branch bearing its reniform lobe or lobes. It has been
found in Guernsey, Devonshire, and the Isle of Wight, but can hardly be considered permanent. In
some plants found by Mr. Chanter, many of the fronds consisted of two reniform lobes standing so
as to give the form of a goblet

40. polymorphum (W.) is certainly only a modification of the same variety, but too unlike it to be

ft unnoticed. Te was found in Sussex by Ме, Wollaston in 1854, The fronds are remarkable for their

great breadth compared with their length. ‘They are either normal, multiid, ramose, truncate, or show

one or more of these characters combined. Other fronds have a peculiar exerescence on their margin, as

if the old fronds were attempting to throw out now ones, 16 is fertile, constant, and rare

41. apicilobum (М). А distinct and marked form, with fronds about threo inches long and two
broad, widest upwards, the midvein not extending to the end, whieh is blunt and rounded in outline,
and deeply cut into several obovate lobes. Tt was found in Guernsey by Mr. J. James.

42. striatum (М). Another of Mr. James's discoveries in Guernsey. The fronds are obliquely
streaked with yellowish green on a dark green, giving them a distinct variegation. Another variegated
form found in Guernsey by Mr. Jackson, which is streaked with yellowish white, is not constant.

13. eieiparum (W.) is ono of tho most remarkable instancos of viviparous growth amongst our British
Ferns, The plant has never yet attained any other than the most pigmy size, and is covered with.
Dulbille both on the frond and stipes. The fronds are most irregular in shape, but chiefly laciniate.
It is a perfectly constant form, and was found in Claro, Ireland, by Dr. Allchin in 1853,

44. spirale (ML). This was found in Guernsey by Mr, James. "The fronds are short, two or three inches

‘ow in proportion, undulate, and twisted in a spiral or corkscrew fashion. It promises to be a
constant form, several suecessions of fronds having maintained the same character

15. erispatum (ML). А small and very much curled undulately-crisped variety, tapering from the
Droadish baso to an attenunted point, which narrowing of the points gives it an aspect different from the
usual forms of erispum. Tt was found by Mr. James in Guernsey, and is very scarce and beautiful

46. eriapum (Willd), This beautiful variety differs from all others in being uniformly barren, It is
one of the oldest forms known, and is most justly admired for the elegant frilling of the frond. Tt
attains the full size of the species, and is exquisitely and symmetrically waved or corrugate, and its
margin crenate. ‘The basal lobes are unusually developed, and overlay each other to a great extent
Tt has been found recently in Yorkshire by Mr. A. Clapham, in Hants by the Rey. W. Н. Hawker, in
Denbighshire by Mr. Pritchard, and in Guernsey by Mr. C. Jackson.

47. subvariegatum (УУ). Тһе fronds of this form aro almost always divided at the point, and faintly
streaked with white, giving them a mealy appearance. "This whiteness seems owing to the disruption
of the cuticle from the tissue beneath. The fronds are extremely various in shape, being ramoso, or
multifid, or both, irregular, undulate, erenate, laciniate, generally slightly auricled, but sometimes, as

in sagittifolsum, producing a barbed auricle, and they aro profuse in fructification. ‘They are also very

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUR FERN

prone to send out a midsummer shoot, which is common to all Ferns in а slight degree ; but this

occasionally produces a young stipitate frond from the apex of the large one, its stipes being thickly

clothed with scales as in the lower or parental portion. It was found by Mr. Wollaston in Dorsetshire

48. undulatum (ML). This is regularly wavy-curled like orispum (46), but somewhat less so, and is
narrower, and unlike that, fertile. А lobed variation of it, an old garden plant—undulato-lobatum
has been recently found in Sussex by Mr. Wollaston, The typical stato of this variety is often
confounded with erispum, and is à constant plant, not uncommon,

49. complicatum (W.) was found wild in 1853 in private grounds at Chislehurst, Kent, by Mr
Wollaston, The fronds are either simple or multifid, and their margins are irregularly erenate,
aciniate, and undulate ; in some respects it approaches wndulatum, Tt is an unusual form.

50, conjunctum (М). А very pretty form, found by Mr, James in Guernsey. It is dwarf, broad,
undulated, lobed, and the apices of the lobes are multiid, with the points twisted as in crísta-galli (58).

51. sagittifolium (УР. is remarkable for having the auricled portion of the lower part of the frond
elongated and deflexed, as the barbs of an arrow, each witha distinet midrib. ‘The plant has a tendency
to be multifid both at the apex of the frond and also at the elongated auricles, It was found in Sussex
by Mr. Wollaston in 1854, and is doubtless a constant form, as the fronds of the former year had the same
peculiarity. Others very similar have been found in Ireland by Dr. Allehin, in 1853, in the counties
Clare and Kerry. It is not the var. sagittatum of Willdenow, a dwarf South of Europe plant.

2. retineroium (ML). Тһе netted venation is the chief peculiarity of this variety. "he fronds are
unevenly strap-shaped, sub-multifid, and blotehed with whitish-green, almost amounting to variegation.
The margin is entire but uneven, It was found in Ireland by Dr. Allchin in 1853, and is unique,

53. dissimile (W.) was found by Mr. A. Clapham near Settle, in Yorkshire, in 1855, and, as its name
implies, has the fronds so unlike each other that they scem to belong to different plants; some are
multifid, sinuate ; others interrupted and laciniate, and some again truncate, obtuse, fan-shaped. Ib
is a vigorous growing form.

54. depauperatum (W). A most curious deformity. Instead of fronds, the plant has little else but
their midribs, forming subulate points, either simple, bilid, or multifid. And as if instinet were given
it, and that it felt it could not exist without spiracles, it throws up, in the course of the season, one or

үде digitate fronds, It is a seedling from digitatum (85) raised by Mr. Wollaston in 1851.

5. multifidum (W.) includes all forms from the simply divided apex of the Zobatum of authors to
those which are more complicated, but in which the lower portion of the frond is normal, and which
аго neither uniformly affected, nor uniformly permanent, "The sub-forms are numerous.

56. furcatum (W.). А very rare variety. Its character consists in the apex of the frond splitting
exactly down the midvein, each portion falling back, forming the shape of а bird's claw ; these oeca-
sionally grow on as in other multifid forms, and divide exactly in the same way over and over again,
while the lower portion continues normal

57. cristatum (Clapham) is closely allied to erista-galli (58) and also to ramasım (63)—to the former, in
the plication of the apex, although it is not nearly so much crisped, and to the latter in general habit and.
eonstaney. It also has a curious inclination to produce filled cups on the under side of the frond on the
main rachis, an inch or two from the apex. The frond is normal in its lower parts. Tt was found by
A. Clapham, Esq, near Settle, in Yorkshire, and is rare

58. erista-galli (МГ. is one of the modifications of multifdum, but differs from it in the apex being
а complicated folding rather than a complicated dividing of its parts, The lower portion of the frond
is crenato-undulate, It is permanent under cultivation, and produces the same form from its spores.
It was found in Dorsetshire in 1850 by Mr. Wollaston.

59. chelafrons (W.). ‘This curious little plant, evidently of the multifid group, is, from its pigmy
habit, scarcely to be distinguished as such. The fronds rarely attain a length of four inches, but are

more frequently from half an inch to two inches long; the apex of most of them is bifureate, exactly in

THE COMMON HARTS-TONGUE FERN

the shape of а crabis-claw, having the external margin smooth, and the internal crenate or dentate,
It was found at Chislehurst, Kent, by Mr. Wollaston, in 1854,

60. rigidum (W.). In this variety the apex of the frond is multifid as in eristatum (57), the lower portion
being normal. The fronds are borne either on a single or ramose stipes, and this stipes so rigid or wiry
that it is quite a remarkable feature in the plant. It has a slight tendency, also, to be supra-lineate,
Mr, Wollaston found it in Sussex in 1854,

01. Zacoratum (М). This is, perhaps, the most remarkable variety yet known; instead of being
simply strap-shaped, the fronds may be not inaptly called sub-pinnatifid. “It is short and
broad, sub-deltoid, the margin deeply inciso-lobate, the lobes large, crowded, and multifid crisped at
their apex ; or sometimes strap-shaped, the margin inciso-lobate, with the lobes na nd
tapering to point ; the apex sub-multifid; the base sometimes hastate.” It was first found at Taunton
Somersetshire, by Mr. J. Young, who has raised from it many seed more or less the charac.
ters of the original, One very similar form has lately been found in Yorkshire, by Mr. Clapham, of
Scarborough. It is now a common garden variety, and is sometimes known under the names of
palmatun, serratum, and endiviafoliun.

62, glomeratum (МГ). There is no plane or strap-shaped portion to the frond of this variety, but it
divides over and over again in so dense a manner, that а. frond of about three inches high forms almost
a perfectly globular mass. It was found in Jersey by M. Piequet, and was sent to us by Mr. Jackson,

63. ramosum (Willd), This, with the variety digitatum (65) and glomeratum (62), are the most ramose
of all the forms of Scolopendriwm. It is ramified at the apex, at least two hundred fold, in some instances,
Each frond consists in a multiplication of all its parts, the stipes starting singly from the caudex,
ramifying as the limbs of a tree, and each branch bearing a densely and multiidly erisped frond and
frondlets almost ad infimum. Its early history is not known, but is mentioned as long ago as
Plukenet’s time, Recently, good examples have been found by Mz, C, Jackson in Guernsey, and by the
Rev. J. M. Chanter in Devonshire. It is uniformly constant and reproduces itself by its spores

64, ramosum majus (Clapham). This is quite unlike samasım, being less multifid, Mr. Clapham says
that “ the peculiarity it possesses is tho great thickness of the stipes, which seems to be a combination
of two or three run into one, so that several fronds branch out from the summit of the stipes. ‘The

fronds in their outlines and cutting vary much.” “Tt originated in the Camellia house of Mr. Clapham,

of Settle, Yorkshire, where it accidentally came up in the soil.” Tt is quite constant. In specimo

sent by Mr, Clapham, two or three vigorous, almost normal fronds, grew on one stipes.

65, digitatum (W.). This variety resembles ramosum (63), except that its fronds are flat, that is, all its
ramifications and divisions are in one plane, so that the fronds are somewhat hand-shaped. The won-
derfully compound ramifications of this variety is shown below, only approximately, however, in the
fifth, sixth, and seventh series of divisions, Tt is by no means a common form, The frond from which

table was drawn up, was grown by Mr, Wollaston, and with the living plant, is now in his possession,

э} qm Lion neni

66. Zacorum (Sim). This variety is a modification of the last, from which it was raised, but
is permanently unlike it. It has a tendency to be viviparous. ‘The fronds are branched as in
digitatum, but the leafy portions are much depauperated, and frequently little else than the veins
remain, giving the appearance of a leaf lacerated or torn into shreds, with the irrogularly-jaggod

margins shrivelled. It was raised from spores by Mr. В. Sim, of Foot's Cray, Kent, and

A. Ceterach offieinarum.

B. 6ymnogramma leptophylla. C. Bleehnum Spieant.

Pres ХЫП. А

THE SCALE FERN, or SCALY SPLEENWORT
(CETERACH OFFICINARUM),

CETERACH, Willdenow.

Clusters of Spore-cases oblong or linear oblique, borne on the anterior side of the
venules (except the lowest, which is posterior), at first hidden amongst densely
imbricated еһайу scales. Zudusium obsolete, Veins forked or pinnate ; renules
amastomosing near the margin, the lowest posterior one soriferous on the side
next the rachis; the ultimate weinlets free

C. OPPICINARUX; fronds coriaceous, narrow lanevolate, sinuato-pinnatifid, often pinn
below ; segments oblong obtuse, entire or sinuately-lobed.

mes Puro сато

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE

Candex short, tufted, scaly. Seales ovate-lanceolate, finely reticulato-venose, dark brown,
branched, numerous,

Stipes short, from half an inch to three inches long ; terminal, and adherent to the caudex
coloured at the base, furnished with numerous ovate-lanevolate peltately attached scales, of а
tawny colour, beautifully venose, with close black reticulations

Vernation civcinate

Fronds numerous, from an inch and a half to six or eight inches long, coriaceous, deep green and

smooth above, densely clothed beneath with ovato-acuminate, slightly ciliated, tawny reticulately venose,

THE SCALE FERN.

closely-imbricated seales ; linear-Ianceolate, deeply pinnatifid, often pinnate below. Zobes oblong, obtuse,
sossile and adnate by their whole base when distinet, more usually dilated on both sides and connected
at the baso, margined with projecting scales of the under surface,

Venation indistinct from the thick texture of the frond, consisting of a sinuous midvein, entering the
lobe from near the lower angle, and giving oll, close to the base on its anterior side, a vein which is several
times forked ; the rest of the veins are alternate and two or three times forked, Beyond tho second
fork the branches or venules anastomose and form two or threo series of small areoles near the margin,
the ultimate marginal veinlets being sometimes free, sometimes united.

Eructification produced over the whole under surface. Sori linear oblong, borne on the anterior side
of the anterior venules, above the first fork, except in the caso of the lowest anterior vein, which is
frequently bisoriferous, one sorus being as usual on the anterior side of its anterior venule, the other on
the posterior side of its posterior venule; they are at first hidden by the denso covering of scales
which eventually they burst through, Zndusium obsoleto; described as an егесі white membranous

Spore-cases roundish obovate. Spores roundish or somewhat oblong, muricate.

Duration. ‘The candex is perennial, "Tho fronds are persistent, new ones appearing about May.

Among British Ferns this plant is at once recognised by its tufted sinunto-pinnatifid fronds, invested

with а close covering of tawny scales beneath. ‘The correct generic position of the plant is not so

satisfactorily or readily settled, neither the degree of relationship it bears to a larger though closely

analogous plant found in Teneriffe and the Canaries, Its sori are said to have a narrow indusium
behind them, and the sporo-casos grow from the anterior side of the vein, and hence it has been, and
probably correctly, considered to belong to the Asplenica, with which the reticulation of its scales is in
weeordanee, We have never found in the British plant, though we believe we have in that of the
Canary Isles, an undoubted indusium, but the dense clothing of scales seems a sufficient explanation of
the obsolete condition of this organ; which is probably represented by a raised line or ridge which
occur behind the line of spore-cases. As to the distinctness of the Canary Island plant it must be
admitted that it presents only differences of degree, but it is not unfrequently twice the length and.
three times the breadth of the largest specimen of true C. oficinarun, and even its smaller examples of
the same length as lange English fronds are twice their breadth, and consequently of a different outline.
Ifa variety only, it is a gigantic one

It grows with tolerable freedom in rough porous soil, which should consist of sandy loam, and
should contain a considerable amount of fragments of limestone or old mortar ; and it must be kept
rather dry than otherwise, and in a well-aired place. Some of our correspondents recommend the uso.
of old cow-manure, and altogether more liberal treatment, but in that case more than ordinary caution.
js necessary not to overwater it

‘This species does not vary much except in size. ‘There are, however, one or two forms found in
some situations, which may be considered as slight varieties, namely

1. erenatwn (М). ‘This has the margins of the lobes distinctly erenato-simuate, and is usually
than the common form. It is met with occasionally in various localities, occurring probably under
certain conditions which favour luxuriant growth, and hence not constant when indifferently cultivated

2, multiidum (W.) is a non-permanent unfrequent form, differing from the normal only in the
divided apex of the frond,

3. depauperatum (W.). OF this several variations have been met with, chiefly in Ireland, where it was.
found by Dr. Allehin. The most remarkable of the forms was found by Lieut-Col. Buchanan at

‘kenny, ‘The fronds are irregularly sinuato-pinnatifid, some bifureate at the apex, some tapering to
‘an acuminate point, and others eornute; the segments very much depauperated, occasionally almost
wanting, in which ense the fronds present the appear sinuately winged rachis, It is probably

nt; and is now eultivated by Mr. Wollaston.

Puare XLII. n.

THE SMALL-LEAVED GYMNOGRAM

(GYMNOGRAMMA LEPTOPHYLLA).

GYMNOGRAMMA, Desvanı
Clusters of Spore-cases without covers, forming elongated forked lines on the back of

the veins, medial, superficial, often becoming at length effuse and confluent

Veins disunited at their extromities,forked or pinnate

6. LEPTOPRYILA: fronds oblong ovate, bi-tri-pinnate

glabrous, fragile; pinnules or
pinnulets ovato-euneate, usually three-loby

| the lobes blunt and bidentate

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

fom Malin BP. 2o

Caudez small, subgloboso, with a few scattered fine hair-seales in the younger stages. Fibres
few, brown, pilose.

Stipes as long as, or sometimes longer than, the fronds, smooth and shining, dark chesmut-brown,
paler upwards, rather stout in the most perfect fronds ; terminal, and adherent to the caudex.

Vernation cireinate

Fronds about six or eight in number, variable in size and form, delicately membranaccous, fragile,
pale yellowish green, very slightly hairy when young, quite smooth afterwards. The first frond
developed from the prothallus or marehantiform scale, is small, about half an inch Jong, flabellform,
three-lobed, each of the segments again dichotomously lobed, the lobules blunt and bifid. The next frond

acquires an oblong ovate outline, and the three lobes are so far separated as to form three pinnae, which

THE SMALL-LEAVED GYMNOGRAM.

aro divided on the same dichotomous plan as the former ; in one such example now before us, which is
üve-cightlis of an inch long, the pinnm are each twice dichotomously lobed, and each ultimate lobe has
its sides nearly parallel, and its apex blunt and two-deft. Two or three fronds of this pinnate
character, each suecessiv өше larger and more divided than the preceding, and all broader and more

fy in character than the subsequent ones, aro produced during the adolescent state of the plants
After this stage has been passed, the fronds acquire height and become more compoundly divided, and
їп two, three, or four stages, according to the vigour of the individual plant, reach to their full
development, The intermediate fronds are from one-and-a-half inch to three inches high, and are
distinctly bipinnate, and generally fertile, The fully developed fronds are from three to six or eight
inches high, and grow ereet, ‘These mature fronds are oblong ovate, Ы- or tri-pinnate, and fertile
throughout, Pinna ovate triangular, alternate. Pinnules ovato-euneate, about three-lobed, the lobes

obovate, and notched at the apex. The pinnules aro scarccly stalked, their base tapering down to a

narrow and slightly decurrent attachment, Specimens of vigorous growth become tripinnate, by the

more complete separation of the lobes of the pinnules

Venation of the ordinary pinnules consisting of a vein which forms by dichotomy a branch at the
base of each lobe ; this vein becomes again branched in the same dichotomous manner near the centre
of the lobe, its two venules being directed, one towards cach of the two apical teeth, and terminating
within the margin. Occasionally the lobe is not toothed, and the vein is simple

Fructification occupying the whole back of the frond, without indusia, Sori linear, forked, occupying
nearly the entire length of the venules, and a portion of the vein below the dichotomy, hence forked,
that is, diverging in two lines from near the base of the pinnw along the narrow lobes nearly to their
apes, at first distinct, but eventually becoming confluent into one mass. When the vein is simple the
sorus is simply linear. Spore-eases nearly globose. Spores roundish or bluntly triangular, faintly
strinto-punetate, dark brown-purple

Duration. "Tho rhizome is annual, and the development of the plant consequently rapid. In
Jersey wo learn that the prothallus is developed in the damp late autumnal months, being perfectly
formed in November. By January three or four fronds have been produced; in April or May the
growth is mature; by August the plants have perished. Sometimes in cultivation the fronds aro not

produced till the second year

This Fern clearly belongs to the genus Gymnagramma, which is distinguished fr ammitis
by the greater length, and the more or less frequently forked condition of the sori. This group,
itself not too distinct however from Grammitis, somo modern botanists have desired to divide into
several genera, one of which, Anagramua, was proposed expressly for this species by Link. Beyond
the marks of habit and aspect, however, there is nothing to separate generically any of the free-veined
Gymnogrammas, and such marks alone are insufficient

No other British Fern approaches at all nearly to the Small-eaved Gymnogram, either in aspect, or
in botanical characters

Ié succeeds with very little caro from the cultivator, and like its West Indian ally, Gymnagramma
‘heorophylla, scatters its spores, and becomes, as it wore, а weed, in congenial situations.
sandy soil suits it. That in which it grows naturally in Jersey, and of which Mr. Ward kindly gave us
a portion richly furnished with its spores, is a sandy loam ; and scattered on the surface of a flower-pot,
this yielded an abundant crop of plants, The young plants like shade, moisture, and a temperate.
climate, which conditions will ensure their successful growth. Propagation must either be trusted to
tho natural scattering of the spores, or a frond or two just arrived at maturity should be preserved
and the spores deposited towards autumn in the situations where plants aro required. We learn from
several cultivators, who have grown the plant in cold situations, that the development has not gone

beyond the production of the prothallus until the second year, Our plants have been strictly annual

Prare XLUL с

THE COMMON HARD FERN (Bircuvum Ѕыслхт).

BLECHNUM, Linnaeus.

Clusters of Spore-cases forming a continuous narrow line on the inner side of a series
of transverse anastomosing veins, near to and parallel with the midvein,
furnished with а membranous cover. Zudusinm continuous, opening on the
inward side, Veins forked from a central costa; ernules distinot to their
apices in the barren fronds, united by the transverse or longitudinal receptacle
in the fertile.

В. ясат; fronds dissimilar, lincar-lanccolato; the barren prostrate pectinato-
pinnatifd, often pinnate below, with oblong linear flat lobes; the fertile erect
taller, pinnate, with linear acute contracted pinnx having reflexed margins

Var. namosux; fronds divided, the apices of the divisions densely multiid-erisped,

forming a close convex tuft of segments,
Buscas Brisa mbes, 122. Шады, de Wi eu in Pgh. МЮ. Жету Hench f

Var. ULTIFUROATUN; fronds divided, the apices of the divisions repeatedly forked, the
ultimate divisions acutely prolonged and forming a flat spreading tuft of

segments.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Waly Keat (оаа) 6. mB becas: entre

HABITA. e Dhami

GEOGRAPIICAL, DISTRIBUTION. Tis Yer tut өне Tun

Jawdez stoutish, tufted, ereet or decumbent, sealy. Seales marrow lanecolate-acum

tawny brown, Fibres stout, numerous, branched, the younger parts densely tomentose

‘Stipes of the barren fronds usually short, i.e, one or two inches long, but sometimes four or five

inches, densely scaly at the base, and with а few narrow seattered scales upwards; dark purplish

THE COMMON HARD FEI

brown ; terminal and adherent to the caudex ; and, as well as the rachis, channelled in front, rounded
and prominent behind. ‘The fertile fronds have a longer dark-coloured stipes, of from five to ten inches
ong, and the rachis is more distinetly purple

Vernation eireinate

Fronds (the barren ones) averaging about a foot, but varying from six to eighteen inches in length,

‘one or two inches in breadth, dark green, spreading or prostrate, linear lanceolate, peetinately-pinnatifid.

Lobes linear oblong, flat, somewhat faleately curved in an upward direction, diminishing below; the
lower ones, small, roundish, the upper confluent into a lanceolate point, dilated and contiguous at their
base, bluntish or acute at their apex, the margins entire, or rarely, when very vigorous, obscurely lobed.
Perlite fronds of the samo form, taller,—one to two fect high—exect, pinnate below, growing from the
centre of the crown, Pinna and segments linear acute, contracted to about half the width of the barren
segments, the lower ones distant, the upper more contiguous, and then dilated and confluent at the
hase, Intermediate fronds, sparingly fertile and not contracted, are sometimes produced.

Venation of the barren fronds distinct, that of the lobes consisting of a stout midvein, produc
onec or twice-forked reins, the venules terminating within the margin in a small transparent elub-shaped.
head. ‘The venation of the fertile fronds is altered in consequence of their contracted nature, and
consists of a series of veins, seldom having space to become forked, but becoming lost in the continuous

dinal sporangiferous receptacle which runs parallel with and very near to the midvein. Tn the
tracted fertile fronds the venules aro continued towards the margin exterior to tho receptacle.
tification on the back of the fertile fronds and occupying nearly the whole under surface. Sort
indusinto, linear, extending on each side the midrib, the whole length of the narrow pinnas over which
they soon become confluent. Receptacle continuous, longitudinal. Zndusium a narrow linear seariose
membrane attached along tho exterior sido of the receptacle, within the margin of the frond, but
sometimes from the excessive contraction of the pinna» almost marginal. Spore-cases nearly globose,
Spores roundish oblong or ovate, slightly angular and punctate.
Duration. "Tho caudex is perennial, the plant is evergreen, the old fronds continuing through winter,

and young ones springing up about May.

"This is a very elegant and distinct-looking Fern, and on that account, no less than for its evergreen
character, it deserves to be more frequently cultivated. Its long narrow peetinately divided fronds, the
barren and fertile growing separate, afford easy marks of recognition.

"There exists a difference of opinion among botanists as to the generic position of this plant,
some referring it to Lomaria, while others retain it in Bleefinwn, The differences between thes

mera are merely those of degree, both having continuous longitudinal sori; those in Lomania are
marginal, and in Blechnwm are placed near the midvein, In this instance, the contraction of the frond
brings the otherwise eostal sorus very near to the margin, but as there is usually, and often very
distinctly, a space exterior to it, the plant seems to accord best with the structure of Blschnum, in
which we continue to place it, notwithstanding the Zomanis-like contraction of the fertile fronds,

In cultivation it prefers a northern exposure, abundant moisture, and a somewhat retentive soil.
It is a very ornamental plant for rockwork where these conditions can be fulfilled, but does not so well
as others bear the confinement of pot or house culture, It is increased by division, In transplanting,
the roots should be carefully preserved, with a good mass of soil,

‘There are many forms aberrant from tho type of the species ; these are enumerated below, chiefly
in Mr, Wellaston's notes :—

1. Lancifolium (W.). This ia the least divided form of the species, bearing much resemblance to
maria. Patersoni, and is perhaps the most striking of all the varieties. It is as if the plant was
in process of formation. Generally the fronds are entire and strap-shaped, from the apex down-

wards for one-third or even half their length, while the remainder is obtusely lobate or distantly

THE COMMON HARD FERN.

етеде; and in no instance are the lobes of the fronds fully developed. ‘They vary in width from
eighth to one-half of an inch, but aro usually about а quarter of an inch wide, diminishin
downwards, and rarely attaining a length of eight inches. The fertilo fronds resemble the barren in
development, but are still more curious, having occasionally only а few imperfect lobes about an
ighth of an inch in length, and the rest of the sori borne on a narrow wing or membrane bordering
the rachis, the whole width being under one-eighth of an inch. ‘They vary, however, from this to a.
fuller development of rather more than half an inch wide, with more frequent lobes, and with fronds
about eleven inches long. There are also produced fronds which are intermediate between the barren
and fertile, It was found near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, in 1853, by Mr. Wollaston, and is at present a
unique and constant form,

2. heterophyllum (Wo. This form is probably tho first step from the normal form towards the
variety sérictum, bearing two sorts of fronds, eithor separately or commingled. Some fronds are of the
usual character ; others have the segments moro or less altered, becoming either narrowed and inciso-
dentate, or shortened to a senicircular outline, with the margin inciso-dentato ; and this in an unequal
and irregular manner, though frequently portions of the fronds, sometimes entire fronds, bear the
shortened segments, and are consequently linear in outline, As in many other varieties of this
monstrous character, the plants, though not producing all the fronds affected, always bear affected
fronds, and it is altogether a curious, constant, and rare variety.

Wells, Kent, by Mr. Wollaston.

strichum (Francis), "This variety, described by Mr. Francis, from Westmoreland fronds come

‚municated by Miss Beover, has been found more recently by Dr. Allehin, in Ireland ; and again, by

Mr. F. Clowes, near Bleak Holme, Windermere. "The fronds are pinnatifid, the lobes being unsym.
metrically and bluntly toothed, wavy, laciniato, dopauperate, and rarely bifureate ; the lower lobes
resembling the upper valve of a small shell of tho genus Area. ‘The fertile fronds are unknown. Ibis
а permanent and graceful form, and very rare.

A. interruptum (W.). "This combines the peculiarities of several of the varieties before enumerated,
‘and is very variable in its growth, but diffors from all in having some fronds ramose, others normal bub
depauperated in part, and their apices bent down faleately, others of the intermediate semi-fortlo
character, with the lobes bifurcato, but all interrupted ; and where this change of the lobes occurs
the frond forms an irregular curvature, and throws out an abortive frond, or what will probably
prove to be a bulbil, resembling other proliforous forms. Tt was found near Tunbridge Wells, Kent,
by Mr. Wollaston, and is a permanent and unique variety

5. serratum (W.). This form may have been originally caused by great luxuriance of growth,
and excessive moisture, but it has proved constant more or less since 1853, when it was found by
Mr. Wollaston in a boggy ditch near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, ‘The fertile fronds, nearly oval in outline,
are about four and a half inches wide in the centro, and eighteen inches long ; their lobes are sharply
serrated, and one or more of the apical lobes start off nearly at a right angle, forming other small
fronds, The barren fronds are deeply serrated and frequently bifureate ; the semi-fertile fronds are
normal, without serratures.

6. multjfidum (W.) is the normal form, which occasionally (but neither uniformly nor symmetrically)
divides once or more at the apex. Tt is not constant under cultivation, but is of frequent occurrence,
in damp shady places.

7. bifidum (W.) is a further development of multfidum, caused by excessive shade and moisture.
In this the apex is more frequently таш, and rather erisped ; and the lobes, both of the fertile and
Darren fronds, are sometimes affected, hut not uniformly, in the same way. Tt is a sub-permanent form
and not uncommon,

8. fissum (М). The peculiarity of this form is, that the apex of the rae it were, split

down a few inches, both sides of tho resulting branches bearing lobes, but those on the inner sides

THE COMMON HARD Б

rudimentary, or very much smaller than those of the outer sides, ‘The apices are sometimes somewhat
тиш]. It was found near Tunbridge Wells, and is not unfrequent, and tolerably constant. ‘The
pearance produced by the inequality of development in the lobes, is similar to that of some kinds of
Gleichenta,

9. erispum (W.). ‘This is a permanent form, in which the apices of all the fronds are multifidly
crisped, and the lobes aro wavy or eurled, but very rarely divided. It has been found in Ireland, by
Dr. Kinahan, and near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, in 1851, by Mr. Wollaston, and is not a common form.

10. Grinervinm (М7), "This variety in its most marked character is no more than а trifoliated
Blechnum, but it not wnfrequently sends up fronds more or less multifid and erisped, with the lobes:
bifureate, Tt is exceedingly raro, and was found in Ireland, in 1854, by Dr. Kinahan, by whom the
plants were sent to Mr. Wollaston,

11. cristatum (W.). This constant form, so unlike ramos, is, nevertheless, a beautiful connecting,
link between it and erispum. Its peculiarities consist in a development, as it were, of the blunt apical
lobes of críspum into branchlets, differing in that respect from the compound ramifications of ramos.
Its basal lobes are frequently elongated and serrated, and the whole plant is very prone to throw up
semi-fertile fronds, the lobes of which are sometimes bifid, and sharply serrated. It was found in 185:
near Tunbridge Wells, by Mr. Wollaston,

12, ramosum (Kinahan). This is exactly analogous to Seolopendrium vulgare, var. ramosum. The
rachis (very rarely the stipes) both of the fertile and barren fronds divides dichotomously into branches

1 branchlets, the apices of which are beautifully curled or tufted. ‘The variety is very rare, and, as
far as wo know, has only been found near Upper Lough Breagh, Wicklow, Ireland, by Dr. Kinahan.
near Eriffe, Mayo, Ireland, by Captain Eden ; and by Mr. J, Найдан, at Windermere, Westmoreland,
the plants slightly differing, It is rather a shy-growing variety

13. multifureatun (ML). This is a handsome and vigorous variety, very irregular in its form, but
quite constant to its peculiarities, ‘These consist, first, in the occasional branching of the fronds once
or twice near the base, and secondly in the apices of the fronds not so divided, as well as the branches
of the others, being many times forked near the apex. The segments resulting from these apical

reations are most irregular in form, but they spread out, and are each of them extended into a
lengthened acute point, of which the margins are irregularly notched, producing a somewhat ragged

appearance. It was found in 1853, in a hedge-bank near Penryn, Cornwall, by Mr. Е. Symons, and.

was communicated to us by Mr. G. Dawson.

un

me NN
=

ae

Prare XLIV.

THE COMMON BRAKES, or BRACKEN

(Preris AQUILINO.

PTERIS, Linnews.

Clusters of Spore-cases marginal, continuous, covered by the reflexed man
fronds, which become attenuated into a continuous membran
opening on the inward D e distinet midvein
(barren) disunited, or (fertile) combined at their

P. ашына; fronds bipinnate or tripinnate, pubescent beneath ; primary pinnce in pairs
ultimate divisions (pinnulets) sessile, the terminal one longer ; rhizome ereeping,
subterran

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

ти 6, 2

THE COMMON BRAKES.

mo as thick as one's little finger, subterrancous, erooping, black and somewhat velvety
externally, white suceulent and starchy within. vdres branched, downy.

Stipes lateral and distant, on the rhizome and adherent to it; spindle-shaped, black and velvety
at the base, i. е, beneath tho surface ; above yellowish green, pubescent when young, afterwards smooth,
but sharply angular when mature, and about or rather over half the length of the frond ; a transverse
section shows the ends of the vascular bundles arranged so as to present a fanciful resemblance to the
imperial eagle, whence the specific mame, Rachie channelled above, rounded behind, sometimes

hily asperulous.

Vernation circinate ; the rachis is in an early stage bent down abruptly close against tho stipes

Fronds variable in size, outline and composition, deep green. In poor soils they vary from six to
eighteen inches in height, and in more favourable localities they reach from threo or four to eight or ten
feet or more in height; in the former eases the outline is nearly triangular, and from the lower pair of
branches only being well developed, they appear three-branched ; in the latter cases they are more
elongated or oblong, and the growth consists of a series of branches in pairs, successively developed.
In composition the smaller are bipinnate, the larger fronds tripinnate. Pinna or branches ovate or
oblong-ovate, opposite, often distant. Pinnules or secondary pinnae narrow lanceolate or narrowing:

or sometimes caudate, Pinnulets sessile
entire or sinuate, oblong and adnate by thei а moro ovate pinnatifid, and. then
with a narrower attachment, blunt at the apex, smooth above, hairy beneath; the pinnatifid ones
with blunt linear oblong or shorter triangular lobes,

Venation of the more entire pinnulets, consisting of forked coins arcuately spreading from a stoutish
midvein ; these veins are one, two, or three times forked, the кепи, extending to the margin. In the
pinnatifid pinnulets the veins become secondary midyeins to the lobes, and give off a series of once or
twice forked veins; in these latter the lowest branches right and left of the secondary midveins
frequently meet and unite cries of costal arcolos. Along the edges of the fertile pinnulets
extends a longitudinal submarginal vein, whieh becomes the receptacle.

Fructifcation abundant on the back of the fronds, sub-marginal, Sori linear, continuous, the recep
tacular vein occupying nearly the margin of the pinnulets, and lying as it were in the axil of the

indusium. Industum linear, continuous, consisting of a thin whitish fringed membrane growing from the

outer edge of the receptacle, and folded inwards over the spore-eases; beneath the spore-eases and.

growing from the inner edge of the receptacle is another similar fringed membrane ; the fringes consist
of small jointed hairs, Spore-cases roundish obovate, Spores round oblong or angular, muriculate,
Duration, "The rhizome is perennial, ‘The fronds are annua ing up early in May, but very

impatient of cold or frosts, and killed by the early frosts of autumn,

A common and well-known Fern, but also easily recognised technically among British Ferns, by the

continuous lines of marginal sori, on compound fronds, not contracted. Like all other widely diffused

THE COMMON BRAKES,

species it is subject to variations of outline and division, as well as of vestiture, but the variations are of
little importance. ‘The nature of the membrane which is found lying beneath the sori, at least in the
fully fructified fronds, has not been well explained. Tt would indeed seem that the lines of spore-cases
lie between two unequal membranes naturally projected. outwards from the marginal receptacle (the
fructification having so far somo resemblance to that of лийза), the revolution of the margin, however
actually bringing tho smaller of these membranes beneath, while the other lies ove

cover, This latter must be regarded as the true indusium, while the former is probably of the nature
of an accessory indusium.

‘The Bracken is not an ornamental plant, in the usual sense of the expression ; indeed, in pots or in
small rockeries, it is rather weedy than ornamental, Nevertheless there are situations in which it may
be cultivated with advantage. ‘Thus, for example, it may be grown for ornament about the margins of
that class of plantations which skirt approach roads or screen unsightly objects; and it may also be
used with advantage for the purpose of affording shelter, or cover in the more open plantations of
parks and paddocks, There has been an impression that the Pleris is difficult to transplant successfully ;
this impression may, with probability, be traced to a statement, long since made, by Sir J. E, Smith, to
this effect. If, however, the subterrancous horizontal rhizome is dug up in winter, without injury, and
planted with ordinary caro, thoro is little risk of failure, The plant is not at all particular as to soil
except that it seems to avoid chalk, though no doubt a deep sandy loam is most congenial to it

‘There are few varieties of the Bracken as yot discovered ; these few are as follow :—

1. intagerrima (ML). ‘The peculiarity of this form in the comparative entirety of the
secondary pinnules (pinnulets) ; these, instead of being mostly and deeply pinnatifid, aro nearly all
quite entire, or here and there only one or two of the basal ones are slightly erenato-lobate, Te is not
uncommon, and probably merges into the pinnatifid form, but many plants and patches of plants are
found possessing this peculiarity in a striking degree, "hore is also a young form of this variety in
which the primary pinnae aro deltoid, and the pinnules of the secondary pinna» sessile, very broad, and
regularly erenate, having something of the appearance of Litobrochia vespertitionts, It is not
uncommon in shady woo

2, erispa (УУ). There are two forms of this variety, the divisions of both corresponding with the
normal growth of the species, but aro occasionally multifid. One has the margins of the pinnulets
entire undulate and reflexed, as in Athyrium Pilie-famina rhaticum ; the other has them erenate and
corrugately waved, as in Scolopendrium vulgare erispum. Tt is not an uncommon, but a local variety

3. multiida (W.). ‘This, in its best condition, is a rather unusual form of the plant, and like many
other varieties bearing this name, is only sub-pormanent: with this exception it is analogous to the
Athyrium Filée-fomina multifidum, There are two sub-forms of it: one, in which the apex of the frond

nd the apices of most of the primary pinnae are multifdly-erisped ; the other in which the apex of tho.
frond and of the primary pinne are rarely multifid, but the apices of the secondary pinna» (pinnules) and
many of the pinnulets are affected instead, Many localities produce one or other of these forms ; the most
marked of the former are from near Chislehurst, Kent, and of the latter from near Ottery St. Mary,
Devon, both found by Ме, Wollaston, We have also received the former from Devon from the Rev, J.
М. Chanter, and from Guernsey gathered by Miss Wilkinson and Mx. O, Jackson; and the last-named
has been found by Mr. 8, O. Gray in Cobham Park, Kent, and also by Mr. Chanter in Devonshire,

4. depauperata (W.). This Mr, Wollaston describes ns a most curiously depauperated form of the
ast, but non-permanent as regards this state, and only sub-pormanent аз regards its multifid state,
nevertheless deserving of record. Tho divisions of the frond correspond with those of multfidum, but
the pinnulets (or rather tho erenate lobes) of the multifid apices of the primary pine, and tho lobes of

the secondary pinnae are all decurrent, depauperated, attenuated and occasionally interrupted, Tt

been found in two woods near Chislehurst, Kent, by Ме, Wollaston, and at Bownes mberland,
by Mx, Wood.

Adiantum Capillus - Veneris ,

Prarz XLV.

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR FERN

(Артахтом CAPILLUS-VENERIS),

ADIANTUM, Linnaeus.

Clusters of Spore-cases transverse, marginal, lincar-oblong or roundish, situated on the
under surface of the reflexed indusium, the sori therefore resupinato. Zndusium
of the same form, membranaceous, traversed by the receptacular veins, and

Dearing the spore-cases on its under surface, Veins radiately forked; venules

disunited at their apices

А. Carniius-Vexenis; fronds bipinnate or tripinnate; pinnules alternate, gla
branaccous, obliquely and broadly wedge-shaped, or roundish with a truncate

base, attached by capillary stalks, the superior margin lobed, the sterile lobes
dentate, the fertile obtuse or truncate

; sori transversely oblong, often occupying
the whole width of the lobes ; stipes and rachis ebony-black, glossy, quite smooth.

Manel of Bish Botany 10. Mackay, Pro Hierin, MM. Des

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.
Pss XIV Abres Camus Verre A, tom Поні, Deon; Jon: A. быш. 8, han Coral (li

Rhizome slowly creeping, as thick as a small quill, densely scaly. Soules dark brown, narrow

lanceolate acuminate, strintely venoso, Fibres wiry, branched, shaggy

THE COMMON MAIDENHAIR FERN

Stipes lateral, adherent to the rhizome, and as well as the rachis, sender, blackish purple, smooth,
shining ; with a few seattored scalos near the base ; about as long as the fr

Vernation circinate

mds usually ovate or triangular, sometimes oblong or lanceolate, membranaccous, glabrous,

t green, drooping, from six to twelve, sometimes eighteen inches in length, bipinnate or tripinnate
Pinna and Pinnules alternate, the latter of various forms: roundish with the base truncate
sub-rhombofdal, or obliquely fan orally moro or less cuneate at the base, attached by
short capillary stalks ; the posterior margins entire, the superior lobate ; the sterile lobes dentate or

ntate, the fertile obtuse or truneate, the sort often oecupying their entire width.

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a series of dichotomous ramifications of the vascular bundles
of the petioles; the first furcation forming the extreme base of the pinnule, and the reins becoming.

in and again forked in a flabellato-radiate manner, until the whole pinnule is traversed by a series of
contiguous and therefore nearly parallel venules, which are disunited at their apices, In the sterile
portions, one of these venules is directed to each marginal tooth, in the apex of which it terminates,
In the fertile portions, the venules extend to the margin, and are thence continued nearly across the
indusium, there forming the reeeptaeles

Fructification on the back of the fronds, generally distributed. Sori oblong, more or less lengthened
according to the width of the lobe on which they are borne, seated on the under surface of the indusium,
borne on the apices of all the lobes into which the anterior margin of the pinnules is divided. Zndusium
of the samo form, consisting, as it were, of a portion of the apex of the lobe, reflexed, and changed into,
‘thin bleached veiny membrane. Spore-eases globose. Spores roundish or angular, ovate, smooth,

Duration. The rhizome is perennial. ‘The fronds aro persistent, remaining until after young ones

аге produced, if kept from being injured by frost, ‘The young growth commences in April and May

The Adiantum is unlike every other British Fern; its black, shining, slender stipes, capillary
ramifications, and fan-shaped pinnules, irrespective of its fruetification, at once distinguish it

‘The Maidenhair grows freely—in a moist close greenhouse, or in the stove, the temperature of which
it enjoys—in the usual light compost of turfy peat and sand, with abundant drainage, ‘The rhizome
should not be buried in the soil, but fixed on the surface. plants aro injured by severe cold, even
when in а closed house, so that it cannot be considered а hardy Fern, Propagation is effected by
division of the rhizomes.

Ranging so widely over the world, it might be expected that modifieations of form would occur,
and such indeed is the case, two or three being met with even in this country. In addition to the usual
state with lobed and decidedly wedge-shaped pinnules, we have, therefore, the following :—

1. multifidum (W.). Dichotomous growth rarely occurs in this genus, but is occasional and inconstant,

2. incisum (ML). This has both the barren and fertile pinnules deeply pinnatifid, or split down into
long narrow lobes, but is otherwise of the usual growth. Marked examples are rare in this country; ono
found in Ireland by Dr. Allehiu in 1853 is constant, Mx, Newman notices another from Mewstone B:
in Devonshire, ‘There are, however, various gradations of this structure, both native and for

3. rotundatum (ML), This sub-variety, found in the Isle of Man (a very similar one also on the south-

west coast of England) has at first sight a different aspect. We have to thank Mr. Wilson and

Mr. Rylands for fronds from the Manx locality, and several correspondents have furnished the analogous
specimens from the English coasts, ‘The chief peculiarity in the most marked, ie, the Manx plant,
consists in the basal pinnules having a rounder outline than usual, with the base truncato; the usual
cuncated base, wanting in these pinnules, appearing, however, in the upper parts of the same fronds,
In addition, the fronds are narrow, and the pinna» more spreading. We cannot, however, fix the limit

of these peculiarities, intermediate and connecting specimens oceurring from various localities

NATURE PRINTING. A. Cystopteris fragilis

В. C.reda. б. C. montana

Prare XLVI. А

THE BRITTLE BLADDER FERN

(CySTOPTERIS FRAGILIS).

CYSTOPTERIS, Bernhard.

Clusters of Spore-cases rotundato, growing from the back of the veins, medial, indusiate
Indusium hooded or eucullate, fixed by its broad base posteriorly beneath the
sorus and inflected over it, at length reflected; the free (anterior) margin
truncate acute or acuminate, often fringed, Feins disunited at their extremities,

branched, the branches (вени) simple or forked.

@. rraomıs: fronds oblong-lanceolate, bipinnate (rarely sub-bi- or sub-tripinnate)
pinnas ovate-lanecolate or oblong-lanceolate ; pinnules ovate lanceolate

blunt or acute, obscurely toothed, incised with short blunt or long narrow acute
teeth, or pinnatifid with ovate or oblong toothed segments.

Narrowerzpinauled often large and ineiso-dentate forms (angustate).

ied or Blunt-toothed. forms (dentate)

BRITTLE BLADDER FERN.

Var. Droxraxa: pinne deflexed, overlapping ; pinnules erowded, broad, obtuse, decurrent
very slightly toothed, or bluntly lobed with the lobes seareely toothed ; sori sub.
marginal, distinct

osteo Man. I the Azores (I I

Carder short, tufted, decumbent, slowly spreading, seareely ereeping, ќе, advancing Interally by the
successive projection of the fronds, which form a tuft at the extremity ; somewhat scaly. Seales palo
brown, lanceolate. Fibres branched, wiry, numerous

pes slender, brittle, readily breaking away from the caudex, dark brown at the base, and there
furnished with a few narrow lanecolate scales, paler or green and smooth upwards; terminal, and
adherent to the candex.

Vernation civcinate

Fronds from threo or four to twelve or eighteen inches in length, егесі, herbaceous, dull green,

THE BRITTLE BLADDER FERN

smooth, oblong-lanceolate, sub-bipinnate, bipinnate, or rarely tripinnate, Pinna ovate-lanceolate or

oblong-laneeolate, with the pinnules usually distinct, but sometimes more or less decurrent or connected

by а wing to the rachis. Pinnules of the more typical forms ovate at the baso of the pin;

oblong

towards the apex, generally acute but sometimes bluntish ; the larger deeply pinnatifd, with oblong

toothed lobes; the smaller inciso-dentate or more shallowly toothed, the tecth Шу acute. In the
angustata series of forms the pinnules aro narrower, and more conspicuously and acutely toothed ; in
the dentata, series, they are not so much separated, and are blunter, and usually, though not always,
less deeply toothed, but always with the teeth blunt

Vonation of the larger pinnules consisting of a flexuous midvein, from which a branch or wein
Proceeds along each lobe, giving off secondary branches, or сенш, mostly simple, one of which
proceeds to the tip of each marginal tooth. The smaller pinnulss more or less resemble the langer of
theso lobes, and are a as regards their venation

uctification scattered over the whole back of the frond. Sori roundish in outline, numerous,

borne on nearly all the branches of the veins in fully fructified fronds, and thus in the more divided
forms appearing to be scattered without order over the whole surface, but in the less divided for
more evidently placed in a line, near the margin of the pinnules, as they often are in the lobes of the
larger ones, though in somo forms they are situated nearer the midrib than the margin, and often in

become confluent; indusiate, medial on the veins, Jndusiwm a thin smooth delicate hooded
membrane, attached behind the sorus, a little to one side, either truncate and thus roundish, or pro-
longed at the point and thus acutely or acuminately ovate ; at first inflected forwards over the spore
cases, soon, however, becoming reflected backwards and shrivelled ; the anterior margin either entire,
‘or split into narrow segments. Spore-eases roundish obovate, Spores round or oblong, strongly echinat

Duration, The caudex is perennial. The fronds are annual, appearing in April or Мау; they
quickly arrive at maturity, and aro followed by others in succession through the summer; and

are destroyed by the early frosts of autumn.

‘Viewed as a collective species—and it cannot be satisfactorily viewed in any other light—this Fern is
easily enough recognised by its small slender fragile bipinnate oblong-lanceolate fronds, and the peculiar
hooded or semicalyciform indusium, which in the early stages of the fructification may bo seen enclosing
the roundish masses of spore-eases. Tt is a plant so polymorphous in character that the species which
botanists have from time to time endeavoured to separate from it, though sometimes assuming a
distinct-looking aspect, are at other times not easily to be recognised, and are ly to be defined
permanently, even as varieties. The Cystopteris fragilis may indeed be considered as being, like the
Athyrium Filiz-famina and Lastrea dilatata, a botanical ignis fatuus, alluring. the ineautious novelty
seeker among the quagmires of spocics-making, in which, when at length his mental vision becomes
cleared by more extended observations, he finds himself hopelessly floundering.

‘The indusium of Cystopteris when assuming the truncated semicalyciform character it sometimes
bears, stands in the same relation to the hemitelioid scales found behind the sori in some species of

Zsophila, as. the more perfect cup in Woodsia—a true cup in somo exotic species—does to that o
yalhea. "These genera thus become connceting links between the polypodiaceous and cyatheaecous.
series. Cystopleris has also a close affinity with that genus of davallioid ferns, called Acrophorns.

‘This is a pretty little forn for the cultivator, affording some variety in his collection, and thriving
well either in pots in frames or greenhouses, or on open shady rock-work in localities which enjoy a
moderately pure atmosphere. ‘The soil may be composed of light turfy peat and loam, with sand, in
equal parts, and the drainage should be ample. It increases readily hy division or from the spores.
‘The fronds are frequently damaged by the rav yellow fungus (Uredo уйт), which
spreads rapidly, and soon spoils those plants which are seriously attacked. From its most commonly

occurring on plants grown in houses, we had thought the appearance of the fungus to be owing to the

THE BRITILE BLADDER FERN.

fined dampness generally maintained in structures where ferns are grown, but as we find native
specimens from Ben Lawers and from Ireland aro similarly affected, it would appear to be a natural
parasite of these tender herbaceous ferns,

The most remarkable forms differing from the ordinary typical Brittle Bladder Fern, are the
following; which are, however, not always so well defined as could be wished :—

1. angustata (Smith). "The form to which this name has been given appears to be one of the larger
states of the species, and includes those forms in which the edges of the smaller pinnules, and of the
lobes of tho larger ones, are deeply and rather evenly incised into conspicuous longish narrow teeth.
According to Sir J. E. Smith this is the same as the Polypodium rheetioum of Dickson and of Bolton
(Ей. Brit. 4. 45). "The spores (in Dickson's plant) are roundish and echinate, Mr. Wollaston and
others think it is not a very constant form, and probably there are more than one to which the name is
applied, some of which may revert under culture to the ordinary state; but we have a plant smaller
indeed than Smith's description seems to point out, which we include under angustata, and this with
usis quiet constant under cultivation, It is more attenuated in the frond, the рінші, and tho pinnules.
and these aro its chief charactoristics,

2. obtusa (AL). This is a distinet and constant form, cultivated by Mr. A. Тай, of Edinburgh. Tt
peculiar in its short blunt ovate narrowly and shortly stalked pinnules, which are deeply separated
into distinct oblong lobes, almost pinnules, and these are notched with small even teeth, which are very
apparent, The spores are echinato. "Ihe colour of the fronds is a dark green.

3, dentata. (Dickson), There aro some cultivated forms referable to this variety that are constant,
though it is probable that accidentally blunt pinnuled fronds of other forms aro sometimes associated
with it in the herbarium, and hence it is often looked on as ineonstant, The features of the true plants
are, small size (four to eight inches long), and confluent pinnules, so that the narrow fronds are sometimes
scarcely bipinnate ; these pinnules are blunt-oblong, simply blunt-toothed, or obscurely blunt-lobed, and.
with the sori placed near their margin, Somewhat larger and more deeply lobed forms, having the
same aspect, are met with, and through these it gradually merges into obtusa, and the normal form.
‘The spores are echinate, but scarcely in so marked a degree as they are in C. fragilis itself.

4. deewrrens QE). A variety intermediate in aspect between dentata and Dickieena, approaching
the latter in the decurrent pinnules and deflexed pinna; but different in the more acute apices of the
fronds and pinnules, and in the more erect and prominent teeth, which rather resemble the former, as
does the colour and texture. ‘The spores are echinate, It was found by Mr, Tait, on the coast
of Fifeshire

5. Diekicana (Sim). The most marked in habit of all the known forms, but connected with fragilis,

through decurrens and dentata, and therefore only to nsidored as a variety. Its peculiarities

consist in the deflexed pinnw more or less overlapping, and in the crowded overlapping position of the.
broad short obtuse bluntly «d pinnules, which aro all connected by the wing of the rachis in
which they aro decurrent. The colour is uniformly а deep bi ven. In the more highly
developed of the fertile fronds the lobes of the pinnules, though still blunt, are more distinet, and they

ave then blunt inconspicuous teeth. ‘The sori are situated very near the margin. ‘The pinnw are
twisted moro or less from the plane of the frond, as occurs in some degree in dentata, from which, with.
the deflexion of the pinnae and the frequent confluence of the pinnules, results a pecular aspect, by
Which this variety is known at first sight, The spores are slightly verrucate or tubereulate, not
echinate-tubereulate as in the other varieties, a fact, we believe, first pointed out by Mr. Wollaston,
‘Tho plant was first found by Dr. Dickie on dripping rocks in a cavo at Cove, near Aberdeen, and it
has since been gathered in the same place by several botanists, and by Dr. Balfour, near Dunkeld. In
cultivation this sometimes produces fronds or pinna, with the apices multifd.

6. mudtifida (W.). Tn this, which is not permanent, the apices of the pinnw or of the frond are bifid

multifid, or the stipes is divided.

THE BRITILE BLADDER FERN

7. interrupta (W.). A curious permanent monstrosity, found in Westmoreland by Mr, Е, Clowes
The fronds are all dissimilar, but mostly linear, and all more or less narrowed, from the altered or
interrupted or contracted stato of the pinme. These are sometimes reduced to small fan-ahap
or three-lobed expansions along a portion of the frond, which is there narrow-linear, or the ріш
vonsist of two to four or six very unequal and irregular, often fan-shaped, pinnules, still producin
* narrow and contracted outline. The pinnules in the interrupted portions are variously truncated,

laciniated, depauperated, or sometimes bifid or multifid, It is a curious plant and quite permanent

8. sempercirens (М). There is another form reputed to have been found both in Devonshire а
Kent, also a nativo of Madeira, which has several distinctive features, and may be called С. fragili
semporcirens.* ‘There are some doubts as to the English origin of this plant, but of its distinctness
as a variety, and probably as a species, попе. Bolton's figure (t. 45), under the name of Polypodium
Phetivum, is а. facsimile of moderate-sized specimens, and he besides mentions two of its prominent
characteristics: if, therefore, his statement is conclusive, which may be open to doubt, it is a native of
Scotland, It is certainly a native of Madeira, whence we have imported plants received from Mr. Sim
of Footscray, and probably occurs also in the other North African Islands, It has also certainly been
found at Tunbridge Wells, and is in cultivation from this source; but there are rumours of its having
been planted there. А similar, but not identical, plant, of which a counterpart is also found in Madeira,

ig however, with the other in its principal features, is loosely stated to have been found in

Devonshire ; but this indication of a British habitat is also open to suspicion, the garden whence it ha
been distributed having been enriched by importations from Madeira. Whether Presl’s C. camariznsis
bo the same, there appears no means of determining, except by а reference to the Berlin herbaria,

has not published any definition or charactor of his plant ; and the same may be said of the C. az

of Fé, The striking differences presented by the plants under notice are (1) their evergreen character
under shelter, those kept in a cold greonhouse—from which, in fae, frost was not exeluded—eontinuing
to grow in suecession through the whole winter, while all other known forms of Cystopteris are quite
dormant ; (2) the toughness, not brittleness, of their pallid stoutish stipes, which are not easily broken.
(3) the greater size of the anterior basal pinnules—these two features being mentioned by Bolton as.

belonging to his plant; and (4) the glandular-hairy vestiture of the indusium, which is conspicuous in

the fresh plant. In all these peculiarities, the Madeira, and reputed Tunbridge Wells, and Devonshire

specimens perfectly agree ; but the latter is somewhat more slender in the stipes, and more acute in the
pinnules, than the others, which aro identical. This evergreen species, for such we believe it to be, has,
in addition, a short, ereeping rhizome, vigorous fronds of narrowish lanceolate outline, and distinct and.
rather distant pinnules, of у ger are often nearly or quite again pinnate, and the lobes

separate, The spores are irregularly roundish oblong, muricate

Prare XLVI. в.

THE ALPINE, or ROYAL BLADDER FERN

(CYSTOPTERIS REGIA).

CYSTOPTERIS, Bernhardi,

Clusters af Spore-cases votundat from the back of the veins, medial, indusiate

Tndusium hooded or cucullato, fixed by its broad base posteriorly beneath the

sorus, and inflected h reflected ; the free (anterior) margin
truncate acute or acuminate, often fringed. Veins disunited at their extremities,
branched, the branches (renule») simple or forked

C. авиа: fronds lanceolate, bi- or sub-tripinnate ; рімше ovate ; pinnules ovate-oblong,
united by a wing, deeply pinnatifid, the lobes linear or lincar-oblong, with two.
or three short blunt or retuso teeth ; rachis winged above ; veins terminating in
the apical notch of the emarginate teeth,

Саты sarin, Sal, Ball Pr, 21 би өм).

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE

Caudez short, decumbent, spreading, tufted, the crown sparingly furnished with a few very narrow
pale brown scales. Fires numerous, branched, wiry

‘Stipes variable in length, sometimes quite short, sometimes one-third to one-half the length of the

THE ROYAL BLADDER FERN

frond, pale-coloured except at the baso which is brownish ; brittle, slender; terminal and adherent
the caudex. Secondary rachis narrowly margined

Vernation circinat

Fronds threo to six or eight inches long, herbaceous, bright pale green, erect, smooth, lanceolate
bipinnate, or almost tripinnate in luxuriant fronds. Pinn@ ovate, acute, unequal. Pinnules bluntly
or sometimes acutely ovate, with a narrow stalk-like attachment, deeply pinnatifid ; the lobes linear or
linear-oblong, blunt, obscurely toothed, or sometimes with short distinct erect teeth which are blunt
pointed or retuse. In the larger pinnules the lobes, though still decurrent, and not truly separate, are
distant and almost divided to the rachis, producing almost a tripinnate mode of division.

Venation of the pinnules consisting of a straightish midvein, with alternate lateral branches (reins)
directed into each lobe, and there again branching into several renules, which terminate in the retuse
apices of the teeth, and are thus apparently directed towards the marginal sinuses,

Fructification scattered over the back of the frond, Sori numerous, sometimes crowded, small,
round, medial on the veins, indusiate. Indusium a small delicate transparent membrane, which is
ovate acute, slightly jagged in front, attached behind the sori, projected forwards over them, and at
length reflexed. Spore-cases roundish-obovate. Spores oblong, echinate

Duration, "Tho caudex is perennial. Tho fronds are annual, appearing in May and perishing

in autumn,

As tho plant found at Leyton is generally admitted to be the Polypodium regium of ашалы, while
it is certainly also the Р. alpinum of Wulfen, it scems proper to adopt, as Presl has done, the older
specific name, Linneus's specimen, howover, it must be observed, is unsatisfactory as evidenco in
support of this view.

here is no doubt the plant is distinct from О. fragilis, being analogous in size with the smaller
forms of that species, but more finely divided. ‘The segments of its pinnules are either narrow-oblong
ог linear, and the teeth are either blunt or more commonly emarginate ; the veins very frequently
terminating in the notch at the apex of the tooth, instead of at the projecting point of the tooth, as in

CL fragilis

It is an easily grown plant, either in well-drained pots of feo open soil, such as light loam and turfy

peat with sand; or im good, i. e. sheltered situations well drained, and with congenial soil, in ope
rockeries. It is more liable than the allied plants to suffer from damp while at rest in winter, and
hence should not be too much watered at that season. There is no other difficulty in cultivating it, and
it is increased with facility by division,

‘The plants occasionally produce forked fronds, but there is no permanent variety known.

Pare XLVL с

THE MOUNTAIN BLADDER FERN

(CYSTOPTERIS MONTANA).

CYSTOPTERIS, Bernhard
Clusters of Spore-cases rotundato, growing from the back of the veins, medial, indusiat
Indusium hooded or cucullato, fixed by its broad base posteriorly beneath.

t length reflected; the free (anterior) margin

Veins disunited at their extremities,

and inflected over it, al
acute or acuminate, often fringed.

nehes (renudes) simple or forked.

branched, the br

pinnae spreading ; pinnules ovate or

с. wowraxa: fronds trimigular, tripinnate below
toothed

oblong, ineiso-dentate or pinnatifid; the lobes obtusely subfalcato
at the apex ; eaudex creeping.

Crisorrraus Antiost, Norman, Appeniis (o Phytoleit, 1851, xx
Варто wortanen, иш, Fre Prag 23 (178)
i 85,03 (19)

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE,
LOST; 1, fom Cacha, Porno J Babb

MADITAT Dis кесе

GEOGRAPHICAL DISTHIBUTION. is Fem Bare nd a obest

about as thick as a crow's quill, producing the fronds at intervals, almost black,

соте ereepin,
Fibres branched, rigid

with a few senttered ovate scales on the younger portions.

‘Stipes lateral and adherent to the rhizome, slender, longer than the frond, often twice as long, dark

brownish-purple at the base, paler upwards, sparingly furnished, especially near the base, with ovate-
lanceolate scales, Rachis narrowly margined above, and together with the secondary rachides, which
are also margined, sometimes tinged with purple,

Vernation cireinate
Fronds four to twelve inches high including the stipes, the leafy portion being about three or four
inches long, and the same in breadth ; herbaecous, decp-green, smooth ; triangular, tripinnate. Pinna

THE MOUNTAIN BLADDER FERN

unequal, ascending, the lower pair considerably largest, two inches and a half long, obliquely ovate,
the posterior pinnules twice as long as the anterior ones; some of the other pinnz are alto unequal
sided, the posterior pinnules being largest, but at the top this difference is not manifest
Pinnules (the largor posterior ones) ovate, pinnate, or the smaller upper ones pinnatifid. Zinnulets
(basal) of the larger pinnules, ovate with a. distinct narrowed stalk-like attachment, but connected by
narrow wing, pinnatifid, with oblong-ovato obtuse lobes eut into linear teeth which are generally bifid at
the extremity. In its ultimate divisions it is thus very much like С. regía.

Venation of the pinnules, consisting of a nearly straight midvein, with alternate veins directed onc
into each lobe; a venule is given off towards the teeth, and is continued to the margin, where it is lost
in the sinus formed by the bilid apex of the tooth, thus ending in a depression rather than a projection
of the margin,

Fructification occupying the whole under surface, Sori consisting of numerous moderate sized,
roundish masses of spore-cases, medial on the veins, indusiate, Zudusium, a delicate transparent, con-

cave, subrotund membrane, irregular at the margin, pl

‚ed at the back of the ‘sorus, and soon
obliterated. Spore-cases obovate. Spores oblong muricate
Duration. "Tho rhizome is perennial ‘The fronds are annual, and appear about May, perishing

in autumn,

This plant is at once known from the other British species of Cystopteris by its long ercopin
rhizome, and its triangular and tripinnate fragile fronds. It has much more the aspect of Polypodium
Dryopteris, for which it might, perhaps, be mistaken,—the more readily, as its indusia become soon
obliterated, and the sori then seem to consist of round naked masses of spore-cases, It is, however, not
three-branched, as that is, and is more divided.

is plant has hitherto proved difficult to cultivate, probably on account of the slight information
which was possessed of the peculiarities of its native habitats, Now, however, that it is known that its
rhizomes thread their way on the ledges of dripping rocks, among beds of sphagnum, it may be

supposed that less difficulty will be experienced. These natural conditions suggest the employment of

(L) broad shallow vessels; (2) a very open medium for the roots, such as light turfy peat and

sphagnum intermixed and blended with sand; and (0) constantly abundant, yet not stagnant, moisture

‘The ereeping rhizomes afford every facility for propagation

A. Woodsia ilvensis. B.W.alpina

Puate ХУП. a.

THE OBLONG WOODSIA (Woonsta inveysis).

WOODSIA, R. Brown.
Clusters of Spore-eases circular, involuerate, medial, springing from the back of the

venules. Zndusiwn attached beneath the spore-eases (hence involueral), and

divided at the margin into numerous capillary jointed segments, which ar

simple or forked.

W. nvensrs: fronds oblong, lanceolate

pinnate, with numerous broadly-subulate
'hafly scales beneath; рінше ol

ng, obtuse, deeply pinnatifil, with bluntly
ovate, or oblong obtuse lobes ; stipes aiid rachis chafly-crinite
a тет Serene X

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

‘ming a small erect or decumbent tufted erown, furnished.

with a few scales above. Seales lanecolate, much acuminated, or subulate, pale brown. Fibres dark

brown, wiry, branched, slightly hairy
Stipes pale brown with a reddish tinge, from one to two inches long, articulated above the base,

which is terminal and adherent to the caudex; erinite as well as the rachis, with numerous pallid

subulate scales.

Vernation cireinate, the young fronds becoming bent like a shepherd's crook.

THE OBLONG WOODSIA

Fronds from two to four or six inches long ; terminal on the caudex, thick membranaceous, dull deep

green, more or less rusty beneath from the abundant scales; lanceolate oblong, pinnate. Pinna
opposite or alternate, ovato-oblong, deeply pinnatiid, sessile or very shortly stalked, more distant below
all spreading or nearly horizontal ; the larger ones about an inch, tho smaller half an inch, in length
Loles eight to twelve, oblong obtuse, tho basal ones largest their margins obscurely erenate, and as
well as the upper surface furnished with coarse scattered hairs, in addition to which on tho under
surface are numerous long subulato scales on the rachis and veins,

Venation of the lobes consisting of a flexuous and mot very distinct midvein, from which arise
alternate veins, the lower ones usually forked domo distance from their base, the eenules extending quite
free nearly to tho margin, and bearing the sori near the apex, but below it ; the upper veins, which are
also fertile, aro simple

Fructification on the back of the frond, seattered nearly equally over the whole surface; situated
below the apex of the veins and venules; sometimes copious and becoming confluent. Sori cirenlar,
consisting of few spore-cases, seated within, that is above, a small membranacoous scale, whose margin
is fringed with jointed shining hairs, which curvo inwards, involving the spore-cases ; hence they are
involuerate. Spore-casee xoundish-obovate, Spores oblong, roundish, or irregularly tiree-cornored,
murieulate.

Duration. "Tho caudex is perennial, The fronds aro annual, growing up in spring, about March,

and perishing in autumn.

The chief peculiarity of the genus to which this species is referred, is found in the peculiar investing
membrane which covers the sori, and which is not easy of examination without careful manipulation.
It consists, in fact, of a small concave scale, resting on the vein, beneath the sorus, having its margin
fringed with numerous hair-like segments, which are incurved over the spore-cases. This structure
gradually merges through some exotic species into an undivided bladdery cup, containing the spore
eases; so that Woodsia, in this comprehensive sense, forms the passage from the polypodiaccous to the

eyathencoous structure

Woodsia йен differs from W. alpina in the breadth and development of the frond, which is
lanceolate and not linear, and it has elongated oblong not short deltoid pinnwe, It differs further in the
erinite condition of the stipes and rachis, and of the lower surfaco of the ribs and veins of the frond ;
YT. alpina being almost destitute of subulate scales, although sparingly furnished with tubular jointed
hairs, Mr. Wollaston has moreover pointed out to us a further difference, namely, that at the period of
vornation, whilst IV. ileensis shows no trace whatever of its fructification, the sori in W. alpina are
remarkably conspicuous. That they are quite distinet, seems to be the general opinion of botanists
This species, according to Mr, Wollaston's observations, produces one variety—multiida—in which

the apex of the frond, and occasionally the apices of the lobes, aro bifid.

Prare XLVIL n.

THE ALPINE or DELTOID WOODSIA (Woonsta arriva.

WOODSIA, R. Brown.

Clusters of Spore-cases circular, involucrato, medial, springing from the back of the
venules. Zndusium attached beneath the spore-cases (hence involueral), and
divided at the margin into numerous capillary-jointed segments, which are
incurved over the spore-eases. Vorne disunited at their extremities; venules

simple or forked,

fronds linear pinnate, slightly hairy, not sealy; pine triangular, or
angular-ovate, obtuse, pinnatifid or lobed ; the lobes roundish obovate, nearly
quite entire ; stipes and rachis vory slightly hairy.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

ARITA Tis ese i blo, т mota of F

Cauder short, subglobose or oblong, forming a small егесі or decumbent crown, furnished with a
fow sealos above. Seales lanceolate, palo brown. Fibres dark brown, wiry, smooth, branched.

‘Stipes pale reddish-brown, from three-fourths of an inch to two inches long, articulated at about
one-third of its length from the base, which is adherent, sparingly furnished with subulate pale brown
membranacoous scales. Rachis slightly coloured, and very sparingly furnished with pale narrow
deciduous scales.

Vernation eireinate

Fronds from about one and a half to six inches long, terminal on the caudex, membrannecous,
of a tender green ; linear in outline, pinnate, Pinn not rarely sub-opposite, more frequently alternate
triangular-ovate, obtuse, sessile or very shortly stalked, pinnatiid ; the lower ones distant, the distance
varying from three-eighths of an inch in the smaller plants to three-fourths of an inch in more vigorous

‘ones, the pinnte about one-fourth of an inch long in medium-sized specimens, up to about half an inch

THE ALPINE OR DELTOID WOODSIA

in the larger ones; the upper ones more closely placed ; all semi-patent or nearly horizontal, Lobes five
to seven, roundish obovat t the base, the lowermost sometimes divided nearly to the midvein,
the upper ones more confluent, and the apex, in the most vigorous specimens, notched so as to indicato
‘an additional pair of lobes; the margins entire or obscurely crenate, furnished with a few scattered
tubular jointed hairs, and hair-seales, others occurring here and there, on both the upper and the under
surface

Venation of the lobes consisting xuose indistinct midvein, which is alternately branched
the brimches or wins are forked, rarely more than o ones undivided ; both veins and
renales terminate within the margin in a slightly thickened point, The anterior venules of the forked
veins, and some or all of the simple ones, bear sori

Fructifcation on the back of the frond produced on all parts of the frond, but somewhat more
copiously in the upper part, the sori situated below the apex of the venules, hence medial, and often at
nth confluent over the lobes, Sori circular, seated within, that is above, а small membranaceous scale
whose margin is fringed with jointed hairs which curve inwards involving the spore-cases; hence they
are involuerate, Spore-cases roundish-obvate, Spores brown, round or roundish-oblong, the surface
granulated or tuberculate

Duration. "The caudex is perennial, ‘The fronds are annual, growing up in spring and perishing

The deseription above given of this very rare species hi drawn up from a series of remarkably
fine specimens, collected on the Breadalbane mountains in Perthshire, by Mr. J. T. Syme, No species,
‘one would think, need be more distinct than this is from Woodsia dernsis, from which the eye ones
scquainted with it, readily dissociates it. It is a smaller, narrower, and smoother-looking plant than
that species; and though under the excitement of the artificial conditions imposed on it in a state of
culture, it does sometimes seem to aequire greater breadth and leafiness, so to speak, than is observable
in the wild specimens, yet the proportion and general features of the plant remain unchanged. It is
much more like the W. glabella, a native of North-West America, but that is still more narrow and
lender.

Our own experience of the cultivation of the Woodsias is given in the Handbook of British Ferns
p. 70) from which we quote the following :—

‘The Woodsias are best cultivated in moderate-sized well-drained pots, kept in a cold frame, facing

the north during the summer-season, and should not be kept constantly closed up. They are very

impatient of sunshine and stagnant moisture, ‘The erown of the plants may in potting be advantageously
clovated a little between two or three small pieces of sandstone. They must not be kept too damp,
especially during winter. А shady shelf in a cool greenhouse where there is a free circulation of air
or a dryish cold frame, are good situations in which to preserve them during the dormant season.
When it becomes necessary to divido the tufts, which is the most ready means of propagation, it should
be done very carefully in spring about the time they commence their seasonal growth, In
obtaining plants from their wild habitats for the purpose of cultivation, as with most other of the rare
Ferns, it is found that small plants are much more successfully transplanted than the larger and
older masses;

Newman recommends potting with thin pieces of porous stone placed vertically as high as the

roots to be carefully arranged among the central pieces, and then covered with a finely-sifted
mixture of decayed leaf-mould, silver sand, and peat, used nearly dry, shaken down and watered, the
process being repeated, if necessary, until the interstices are filled up. We should prefer to use a
mixture of pure light loam and sand between the stones, as being more evenly retentive of moisture,
‘and this coineides with the experience of Mr. Wollaston, ackhouse hints that the less repotting

or disturbance at the root they are subjected to, after being once planted, the better

radicans

Trichomanes

Prare ХҮШ.

THE EUROPEAN BRISTLE FERN (Тисномахкз rapreays

TRICHOMANE

, Linnaeus.

Clusters of Spore-cases enclosed within extra-marg

nal tubular or urn-shaped (nrofueres
which are of the same texture

as the frond. Spore-cases obliquely compressed
with a transverse ring, sessile around the base of the columnar receptacles,
bursting vertically. Receptacles (ext inal extensions of the ve

exserted,

within the involucres, filiform, more or less Veins disunited at their

extremities, simple or forked

T. xapicans; fronds pellueido-membranaecous, ovato-.
tri-quadri-pinnatifid
of the stipes winged

ойе, or triangular-ovate
the rachis everywhero, and the upper part, or the whol
ultimate se linear, entire or obtusely bifid
involucres cylindrical, scarcely two-lipped, solitary in the axils of the upper
segments, more or less ized ; enudex long, creeping, tomentose

Moral of Brith Jte, 10

Var, Аран; fronds narrow lanccolate-ovate ; primary divisions narrow, and, as well
as the secondary, distant ; involueres immersed ; receptacles much elongated

о Es

THE EUROPEAN

ome black, creeping, elongated, t xe, with small thick-sot articulated dark-eoloured jointed
hairs, Fibres black, stout, branched, densely tomentos

Stipes variable in length, from one-fourth to one-half the entire length of the frond, terete, margined
above with a narrow membranaecous wing, which is sometimes continued nearly to the base ; lateral
adherent to the rhizome ; the base clothed with articulated hairs, Ласла everywhere winged.

Vernation circinate

Fronds six to twelve inches or more in length ; pellucido-membranaeeous, dark olive-green ; darker
when dry, quite smooth ; ovate-lanceolate, or triangular-ovate, more or less attenuated at th
tripinnatiid, or quadripinnatid, Primary divisions (pinnz-like segments) ovate-laneeolate ; Шо
secondary ones ovate, obtuse, cuneate at the base ; the tertiary ones oblique oblong’; the ultimate lobes
oblong, toothed, the teeth short linear, entire, emarginate, or bifid. In highly developed fronds of the
triangular form the secondary divisions are often longer and comparatively narrower, and the ultimate
divisions are more distant. The teeth at the apices of cach series of divisions are frequently more
elongated.

Venation consisting of а series of forked ramifications of the wiry ribs, which issue alternately from.
the main rachis and enter the primary divisions; these аге everywhere bordered with a pellucid wing
of а loosely cellular texture, The lowest anterior branch or veinlet of these veins in the ultimate
segments is, in the fertile fronds, continued beyond the margin, and forms the receptacle ; but in the
barren portions the apices of the veinlets do not quite reach the margin.

Fruetification seattered over the fronds, extra-marginal, ie. the tubular inyolueres are projected
outwards from the margin, the opening being exterior. Sori consisting of sessile spore-cases, clustered
around the baso of the filiform receptacle, which is free within the involucre, with its apex more or
less projected beyond it, Zntolucro cylindrical, cup-shaped, somewhat tapering below, open exteriorly,
supra-asillary, that is, produced in the upper axils of the (ultimate) lobes, more or less sunk in the

apex of one of the lobes or teeth, tho month sometimes slightly spreading, or shortly two-lipped.

Spore-cases sessile, obliquo, latero-vertieally compressed, roundish or obovate. Spores irregularly

roundish or oblong, sometimes three-cornered, minutely papillose
Duration. The rhizome is perennial. Тһе fronds are also persistent, enduring for many years

if not injured ; they are at least two years arriving at the fertile state

The pellucid, moderate-sized, much divided, yet not pinnated fronds of this species, produced from
а creeping rhizome, suffice to distinguish this plant from other British Ferns, Ther ast three
forms or states of it met with in Ireland. One in which the fronds aro ovate-lanccolato, with the
segments broader (Prat XLVIIL a.) most nearly according with 7. radicans of Swartz, as illustrated
by Hedwig. Another, more triangular in outline, the segments appearing narrower (Prare XLVIIL n),
seems to represent tho 7. speciosum of Willdenow. A third with the fronds narrower and more
lanccolato, the primary divisions narrow, and, as well as the secondary ones, more distant or distinct
(Pua ХІУ. c), is the 7. Andrersii of Newman, and is analogous to many of the tropical forms,

In cultivation this Fern requires that its rhizome should be fixed to a firm and durable medium, for
which such materials as porous stone, or earthenware, or brick are most suitable ; and this must
be kept constantly moist with tickling water, The rhizome then, as it grows, attaches itself in
the manner of ivy. То induce this growth of the rhizome and also a healthy growth of the fronds, a
constantly damp atmosphere is essential; indeed the fronds themselves should be almost constantly

in a dripping state and always shaded.

A.Hymenophyllum tunbridgense B. H. unilateral

Pire XLIX. a

THE TUNBRIDGE FILM FERN

(HYMENOPHYLLUM TUNBRIDGENSE).

HYMENOPHYLLUM, Smith.
Clusters of к

involucres, of the same texture as the frond.

Spore-eases obliquely co
lpore-euses obliquely compre
with a transverse ring, sessile around t

columnar receptacles, bursting verti
cally. Receptacles (extra-m

ıarginal extensions of the veins) free, and included
within the involucres, sub-clavate, Veins disunited at their extremities, simple
or forked.

Н. TUNBRIDORNSE: fronds

pollucido-membranaccous, ovate or oblong more or less clon:
gated, pinnate

pinnae subvertical, pinnatifid, decurrent, forming a wing to the
segments linear, undivided or bifid, and, as well as the upper margin
of the roundish valves of th

spinulosely serrate

rachis

axillary solitary sessile compressed involucres,

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Rhizome vi

id, filiform, dark-brown, ereeping, branched, and forming dense entangled carpet-lik
masses ; furnished ab

¢ the base of the fronds with a few hair-like scales. Fibres slender and downy
Stipes slender, wiry, terete, varying from one-third to one-half the length of the frond, often
slightly mangined or winged in the upper part ; lateral at intervals along the rhizome, to whieh it is
adherent

THE TUNBRIDGE FILM FERN

Vernation circinate

Fronds smooth, pellucid-membranaceous, minutely cellular, decp-olivo or sometimes brightish green,
from one to four or five inches long, varying in outline, usually ovato, Ianeeolate-ovate, or oblong, more
or less elongated, pinnate below, Pinnee or primary divisions alternate, decurrent so as to form
everywhere, except at the base of the larger fronds, a narrow entire wing to the rachis ; distichous,
scending or sub-vertical, subrhomboid in circumscription ; furcately bipinnatifid, that is to say, twice
divided with the ramifications on a dichotomous or forked plan, the divisions alternating, and so placed
аз to show an apparent excess of development on the anterior sido from the medial or axial vein (which
may be recognised), curving upwards, Ultimate segments linear-obtuso, spinulosely serrate

Venation consisting of a series of dichotomous ramifications (two or three-times repeated) of the
wiry ribs which branch alternately from the main rachis, each ultimate segment having one of these
divisions along its contro, and not quite reaching to its apex. Thus the fronds might be said to
consist of slender branching wiry ribs everywhere bordered with a delicately cellular pellucid-
membranaccous margin.

Fruetification usually produced in the upper half of the fronds, extra-marginal, i. c. the two valved
involucres aro projected outwards from the margin, the opening being exterior, Sort consisting of
sessile spore-cases, clustered around the receptacle. Reevptacle formed of the altered apex of th
lowest anterior vein of the pinna, spongy, oblong-elavate ; free, central and shorter than the valves of th
involuere, therefore included. Tneolwores sessile, supra-axillary, i е borne in the axils of tho pinnae or
primary divisions, short, compressed, the base somewhat inflated, cuneate and more or less sunk in the
segment ; the anterior part two-valved, the valves semiorbieular, flattish, spinulosoly serrate at the upper
margin, Spore-cases sessile, affixed obliquely, vertically compressed, thus lenticular, with a transverse
ring. Spores minuto, irregularly oblong, or triangular. Normally the lower anterior branch of tho
pinnae only is fertile, but sometimes one or more others are also soriferous.

Duration. "The rhizome is perennial. The fronds are also perennial, growing up in the course of

the summer, attaining their full growth during the season, but enduring two or three years under

favourable eireumstances,

‘The two British Hymenophyltums, may be known from other Ferns by the matted growth of their
thread-like rhizomes, by the small size, the pellucid, and finely cellular texture of their fronds, whose
segments have each only a central rib, and by the two-valved marginal fructifications. They may be
best known from each other by the form of the involueres and of their valves ; for although they may
probably always be recognised by a practised eye by their peculiarities of growth, yet these latter are
not features to be generally depended on. In AT, tunbridgense the valves of the involucre are roundish
“and flattish, and the upper margin is spinulosely-serrate, like the margin of the segments of the pinna

whilst in ZZ, unilateral the valves are ovate and conves, and the margin is quite even. In the former
the involueres are usually sessile and erect; in the latter stalked and deflexed in an opposite direction

to the segments, No varieties of importance have been observed in the British Hymenophyllums,

Prare ХЫХ. x.

WILSONS, or THE UNILATERAL FILM FERN

(HYMENOPHYLLUM UNILATERALE).

HYMENOPHYLLUM, Smith.
Clusters of Spore-cases enclosed within extra-marginal two-valved sub-ureoolate
involucres, of the same texture as the frond. — Spore-eases obliquely compressed,
with а transverse ring, sessile around the columnar receptacle, bursting verti
cally, Receptacles (extra-marginal extensions of the veins) free, and included
within tho inyolueres, sub-elavate
or forked,

Veins disunited at their extremities, simple

Н. uwIrATERALE: fronds pellucido-membranaccous, pinnate, oblong-clongate or linear

pinnwe deeurved, sub-unilateral, digitately pinnatifd, slightly decurrent forming
a narrow wing in the upper part of the rachis; segments linear, undivided, or
biña, spinuloscly serrate ; involucros axillary, solitary, stalked, ovate, inflated,
the valves entire

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Rhizome rigid, filiform, dark brown, ereoping, branched, and forming dense entangled masses;
bearing a few hair-like scales about the bases of the fronds, Fibres slender, downy.

‘Stipes slender, wiry, terete, varying in length, one-third the length of the frond, often less ; distant
and lateral on the rhizome, and adherent to it, Rachie terete below, narrowly-winged above

Vernation circinato

THE UNILATERAL FILM FERN

Fro ucid-membrannecous, minutely cellular, dark green, from one or two, to five or
six inches long, oblong or linear +. e. elongate-oblong, pinnate. Pinna» decurrent in the upper part
and there forming a narrow wing to the rachis ; distine curved backwards, subunilateral
haped in eircumseription ; digita natifid, i.c. two or threo times dichotomously forked,
an axial vein, the segments dev the side, Ultimate segments linear, obtuse,
spinulosely serrate. Luxuriant fronds have a tendency to become branche

Venation consisting of two or three die

us ramifications of the wiry ribs, which branch alter
nately from the main rachis; each ultimate segment having one of these branches along its cent
not quite reaching to the apex

Fructification produced on the upper ран each annual growth, extra-marginal as in
И. tunbridgense. Sori consisting of spore-cases, clustered around the short receptacle. Recep:
tacle free, central, spo ng, elub-shaped, shorter than tho valves of the involuere. Znrolueres
supra-axillary, more or less obviously stalked, curved forwards, i e. in a direction opposite to that of
the segments ; inflated, two-valved, the valves ong, strongly convex, and quite entire at the
edges, which are at first closed, but at length become gaping. Spore-cases sessile, vertically com.
pressed, thus lenticular, obliquely affixed. Spores minute, irregularly oblong. In some instances,
especially where the frond becomes branched at the apex, numerous sori are borne without order
On the segments, but usually they are confined to one on each pinna, next the rachis, as in
II. tunbridgense

Duration, "Tho rhizome is perennial. The fronds are perennial, enduring for two or three years,

or more, renewing their growth annually, as occurs in Lycopodium annotinum.

We are indebted to Mr. F. Clowes, of Windermere, for the interesting observation that, the fronds
Of this species of Hymenophyliwn resume their growth after the first year, unlike those of J tun:
Bridgense, which complete their growth in one season, Mr, Clowes gives the following account of his
observations :—“ I have a large plant of Af. tunbridgense and of Н. unilateralo, which were put into
û case in March, 1854. Both are growing vigorously. But I remark that all the fronds of J7. tunbrid-
gense are annval—I mean, they come up in spring, bear fruit more or less, persist more or less, but
never grow more than one year. Those of HZ. wmilaterale, on the contrary, go on growing year aft

year. A great, number of the fronds which were on the plants when placed in the case went on
growing, bore fruit at or near the extremity of the fronds that year, grew on again last year, and

Dore fruit, and are doing the same this year (1856), во that some бош

wide in proportion, This is not the effect of cultivation, as the wild plant does exactly the same—

growing ‘annotinously, in fact, but without distinct marks between the growth

The cultivation of the Film Ferns is an object of much interest to the fanciers of British Ferns,
‘The plants require a glass covering to preserve about them a constantly moist atmosphere, and
constant, but not stagnant, moisture, should be maintained about their roots. ‘These are their main
requirements, and it matters little how they are applied, whether in а Wardian case, or beneath a
common’ bell-glass. We learn from Mr. Clowes, whose success is evident from his remarks already
quoted, that the bell-glassos ought always to have two small apertures, as vents, near the top of
the glass. Until he adopted this expedient, his efforts to cultivate the Film Ferns were attended

with but little success.

EI

ii

РР

EZ

Ss

zi

A

UALS.

|

Osmunda

Pu 1,

THE ROYAL, or FLOWERING FERN

(OsMUNDA REGALIS).

OSMUNDA, Linnaeus,

Clusters of Spore-eases naked, densely clustered on contracted rachiform portions
the frond, forming (in the British species) terminal panicles of nodulose өріс
Spore-cuses largo, stalked, reticulated, subglobose, two-valved,
cally, the transverse ring rudimentary. Veins forked
their extremities

opening. verti
renules disunited at

0. вводив: fronds bipinnato; pinnules oblong, nearly entire, dilated,

and more or
less aurieled at the base

(rarely tripinnate); sporo-cases clustered in twice
branched panieles at the apex of the fronds.

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

(ай. шыш). a Nor Amer, n
United өше (II Жиби). 1

Cauder stout, firm, gro spreading, or erect and trunk-like, often
attaining an elevation of two feet or more, Fires numerous, stout, branched.
Stipes nearly or quite as long as the leafy part of the frond; and as well as the rachis suce

lent, tinged with red, and clothed with loose deciduous pale-brown cobwebby wool when young ; firm,
smooth, and pale green when mature ; terete, somewhat flattened in front, the base dilated, with a
membranaceous margin. Secondary rachis channelled and margined in front

Vernation circinate.
Fronds numerous, terminal and adherent to the caudex ; oreet, or sometimes arching ; variable in

height, two to four feet in more exposed and drier localities, six to eight or even occasionally ten to

twelve feet in very damp sheltered spots ; membranaecous, smooth, bright yellow-green, paler beneath

THE ROYAL, OR FLOWERING FERN

broadly-lanceolate, bipinnate, occasionally tripinnate ; some entirely barren, others having several of the
upper pinne transformed into a terminal fertile panicle, йла (sterile) nearly opposite, lanccolate
ovate-lanceolate, impari-pinnate, distant. Pinnules opposite or alternate, one to two in

oblong or oblong-ovate, obtuse, sometimes slightly faleate, rounded or somewhat di

especially on the posterior sido; sometimes distinctly auricled, occasionally deeply metimes
with the lobes separated ; the terminal ones, which are more acute than the rest, usually lobed at the
base ; the margins are obscurely crenated, or sometimes serrated.

Venation of the sterile pinnules consisting of a stout midvein giving ‘off nearly opposite veins, which.
are forked once near their base, and again once or twice before reaching the margin in which they are
lost; they are parallel and slightly curved.

Fruetification consisting of the upper pinnas (usually wholly, sometimes only in part) changed into a
bipinnated panicle of contracted rachiform capsuliferous divisions. Each short spike-like branch of this
Panicle represents one of the pinnules, the spore-cases being collected on it into little more or less
evident nodules ; each of these nodules corresponding to a fascicle of the veins, This is quite evident
in the case of the partially transformed pinnules. Spore-oases subglobose, reddish-brown, reticulated
shortly-stalked, two-valved, opening vertically. Spores smoothish, globose ovate or oblon;

Duration. "The caudex is perennial. The fronds are annual, growing up very rapidly early in
May; the panicles reach maturity early in summer, and soon decay, and the fronds themselves are

destroyed by the autumnal frosts.

This, the most stately of the British Ferns, well deserving the striking name assigned to it, is at one
known from all other native species, by its entirely fertile panicle terminating the otherwise leafy
fronds, There is moreover abundant technical distinction, in the structure of its spore-cases.

16 is a very handsome plant at all times, but especially beautiful when, in very luxuriant growth,
its fronds loaded at their tips by the fertile panicles are bent down gracefully until they almost reach
the surface of the water by the side of which they are growing. Hence it should always find a place in
cultivated collections. It is of саву culture, requiring much moisture, and preferring а peaty soil. By
the margin of lakes or streams, or at the base of a rockery abutting on an artificial bog or pool,
the Osmunda would find itself at home; and no special culture would be necessary. Like most other

ferns it grows finest in sheltered places. Tt is inereased by dividing the tufts ; but it is by far the best

plan in planting such species as the present, to procure vigorous masses from the localities where they

are spontaneous,

C.0.lusitanicum

Lunaria

pa
a

А.

Ophioglossum vulgatum .

B

Prare LL a.

THE COMMON MOONWORT (Bomrcmun Tovar).

BOTRYCHIUM, Swar

Clusters of Spore-cases naked, clustered on and entirely occupying a contracted branch
of the frond, forming a panicle of secund spikelets Spore-cases lange, sessile,
globose, biserial, fleshy-coriaccous, not reticulated, and without a ring, two.
valved, opening vertically, Veins flabellato-fureate; venules disunited at their
extremities.

B. Luvanta; fronds solitary; barren branch oblong pinnate, the pinne hunate or
fan-shaped, with the margin jagged or erenate

Borsvencu Пахан, Seen, deals жены fir die Doni, 1800, ii 10: Sid, gl Flory

Var. алтмели; barren branch deltoid, pinnate, the pinna: linear різна ва

arms 03. Sain, Krpopnthe Goer, е ) Prol, Supplement
Piero, M. Nose, Hairy of Iri Вит, 50. Blige, Monel Y Bri

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

(OROGRAPIICAL DISTRIBUTION. Me Moss

Corm-liko Crown forn nall scarcely thickened wiry-rooted descending axis (rhizome, Pres)
terminated by a bud or growing point, enclosed by brown membranaceous sheaths. Roots stoutish,
fleshy, brittle, branched, growing in an irregular spreading manner from about the erown ; and also
branching in a subverticillated way from the perpendicular axis beneath the crown. When at rest
ihe plant consists of this crown or bud, or growing point, seated among the wiry roots, enclosing
the incipient or rudimentary fronds, and encased by membranaccous sheaths the ren

former fronds.

THE COMMON MOONWORT

rect, smooth, eylindrical, hollow, succulent, having two or three vascular bundles embedded
i, its base surrounded by long brown sheaths, which are doubtless the persistent bases of
mer fronds ; about half the height of the entire frond ; dividing at top into two branches, of which
is leafy, the other fertile
Vernation plicate, or folded straight, the fertile branch clasped by the sterile
Fronds from three to eight or ten inches high, firm, stout, fleshy. Sterile branch smooth, dark
glaucous green, pinnate, Pina four to six or seven pairs, flabellate or Iunate, the margins nearly entire,
or somewhat erenate, or more or less lobed ; sometimes partially fertile, Fertile branch pinnate or
bipinnate ; the narrow rachiform spikelets (whether answering to pinnze or pinnules) fleshy, flattened,
and bearing on the face towards the sterile branch a double row of erect spore-cases, so that these

spikelets are secund, and they are moreover more or less incurved, or subereet. Sometimes more than

опе fertile branch is produced, and occasionally spore-cases occur on the edges of the barren pinna

Venation of the barren pinme flabellato-farcato, 4 e. the vein enters at the base, and becomes forked
over and over again until the whole space is traversed by the eontiguous slightly radiating veins and
venules that do not extend quite to the margin.

Fructification occupying the flattened rachiform divisions of the separate fertile branch of the frond.
Spore-cases sessile, standing erect 1. e. at a right angle to the plane of the segments, in two rows along.
each of these segments near the margin; smooth, spherical, without apparent rings or reticulations,
bursting transversely, golden brown when mature, Spores smooth, roundish, oblong or angular,
pale-coloured.

Duration. ‘The crowns and roots are doubtless perennial. ‘The fronds are annual, growing up in
April or May, and becoming fully grown in June, afterwards gradually drying up and perishing with

the summer's drought

‘The ordi iate of the Moonwort may be known by the double row of fan-shaped pinnae which
form the sterile branch of its frond. It is a plant not easily distinguished from the herba
which it grows, and on that account is probably often passed over without recognition
variety rulacoum, which is perhaps entitled to specific rank, differs in its broader triangular
twice-divided barren branch—as though the form of the fortilo branch were transferred to the barren ;
and by the linear form of the secondary divisions. It is reported to have been found near Buxton
Derbyshire, and on the sands of Barry near Dundee, but very spari We have not seen a native
specimen, ‘Though the B. rvlaccun is by no means an unlikely plant to occur in Great Britain, the fa
of its occurrence must, as yet, be reganted as doubtful
No very marked success has been met with in cultivating tho Botrychium, Mr. Newman regards it
ав an underground parasite, which view is at least doubtful, as the plants have been dug out with the
utmost caro without any trao of adhesion to the roots of surrounding plants being discovered. The
difficulty of growing it, is probably after all chiofly owing to the almost unavoidable fluctuations of
juro to which artficialy-cultivated plants are subject, and which, judging from the natural sites in.
which this plant grows, it is unable to bear. ‘The best chances of success are to dig up the plants
while growing with sods of the natural soil lange enough to enclose the roots uninjured, or to take them
with less soil at the dormant period, the position of the plants having of course been previously
marked; in either ease to plant them in considerable masses of soil, made up so as to imitate that
from which they were taken as closely as possible, whether it be sandy loam or an unctuous peat, in
both which they occur. Care must be also taken to keep the soil coo), and moderately as well as equably
moistened. ‘The plan of transplanting at the dormant period is certainly most in accordance with
theoretical notions of success ; and probably the shade afforded by other herbage such ав grass, to the

surface of the soil, would be found beneficial to the plants,

Prare LI. в.

THE COMMON ADDERS TONGUE,

(OPHIOGLOSSUM VULGATUN).

OPHIOGLOSSUM, Linnaeus.
Clusters of Spore-cases naked, arranged in a simple distichous spike, forming a con:

pore-cases uniserial along each margin of the
compressed spike, leathery, without reticulations, horizontal,
in or connate with the spike, opening in two valves transy
Veins (ccostate in British species

tracted branch of the frond.

o, but sunk
y to the axis,

orm, reticulated in elongated hexagonoid
areoles, with or without free included гейге

0. үпөлтм: fronds usually solitary ; barren branch ovate obtuse
linear

fertile branch

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Corm-tike Crown forming а thickened fusiform descending axis (rhizome, Pres), terminated Ъ
bud or growing point enclosed by a few brown membranaceous sheaths, Roots coarse, brittle, fleshy
spreading horizontally, unbranched, growing in a somewhat whorled manner from the crown and the
perpendicular axis; one (or more?) elongated under-ground in a stolon-like manner, and producing a
new crown at a distance from the parent. When at rest, the rudimentary plant forms a growing point
exterior to the former fronds, at the apex of the erown.

Stipes егесі, smooth, eylindrical, hollow, succulent, usually elongated to about two-thirds the height
of the frond, traversed by two or three vascular bundles, the base enclosed by membrannecous

eathing scales ; divided above into a separate fertile and barren branch,

Vernation plicate or folded straight, the sterile branch enclosing the spike of fructification

Fronds from three or four inches to a foot in height, thin but somewhat fleshy in texture, Sterile

THE COMMON ADDER'S TONGUE.

branch smooth, entire, sessile, broudly-ovate or ovate-clongate, acutish or obtuse, pale yellowisl

7i erect, consisting of a simple spike terminating а more Jongated footstalk,
Which appears to spring from the inner base of the sterile branch ; spike linear, very slightly tapering
upwards. Occasionally more than ono fertile spike is produced, but it is very seldom that more than one
frond is produced from each crown.

Venation of the barren branch consisting of а series of uniform reins (no midvein) ev
anastomosing, and forming a series of narrow elongated hexagonal areoles, those towards the cireum:

rence becoming shorter and broader; within these are a sories of lesser veins (venus) dividing the
areoles into other smaller ones of similar form. From the sides of these areoles, branch, more or less
abundantly, short divaricato, free included reinlzts, which are usually more numerous near the margin.

Fructifcation occupying. the margins of the linear spike, which terminates the contracted fertile
branch. Spore-caves smooth, spherical, without rings or roticulations, embedded in a single series in

each margin of the spike, bursting transversely, and then forming gaping concavitics which give a
toothed appearance to the margins. Spores verruculate, roundish, pale-coloured.
Duration. ‘The crowns and roots are perennial, The fronds are annual, growing up- in May,

reaching maturity in June or July, and then gradually drying up and perishing

The Adder's Tongue, with its broad oval barren branch, and linear fertile branch, is so unlike other
British Ferns, that it may be at once distinguished by these features. Its simple barren branch do
not present much variation, the principal differences lying between a short broad oval outline, and a
more elongated oval approaching to lanceolate

A somewhat marked variety, however,—0. eulgatum minus—perhaps the O. azorieum of Pre
(Hochstett, I. Azor. Un. Itin. 165) has ben found by Mr. Syme in Orkney, This is a much smaller
plant, the barren branches of a narrow oval outline, and the plant reaching maturity in September, at
Which period the common form has decayed. ‘The venation is the same as in the common form. ‘The
small size and narrow outline of this plant have induced some botanists to unite O. vulyatun with
0. Tusitanieum, аз forms of one species, tho plant now referred to being taken as one of principal
connecting links; but this combination is surely carrying the so-called reduction of false species to an
unnecessary length, and is at least as confusing as the opposite practice

Though of similar habit to the Лоуел іол, this plant is more readily cultivated. ‘The roots should
bo taken up without being broken, in sods of the soil in which they grow, and these should be planted
in similar soil, in any moderately exposed situation, where the roots may be moist and cool, but not liable
to excessive wetness, Loamy soilis generally preferred. It is one of those plants which seem to derive
benefit from the shade of surrounding herbage, and in consequence “gardenesque” neatness is
inimical to it

Prae LI. с.

THE DWARF ADDERS TONGUE,

(OPHIOGLOSSUN LUSITANICUN).

OPHIOGLOSSUM, Linnaus.
Clusters of Spore-cases naked, arranged in a simple distichous spike, forming а con
tracted branch of the frond. Spore-cases uniserial along each margin of the
pressed spike, leathery, without retieulations, horizontal, globose, but sunk
in or connate with the spike, opening in two valves transversely to the axis
Veins (ecostate in British species) uniform, reticulated in elongated hexagonoid
areoles, with or without free included eeindets

0. цапавтсом; fronds solitary, or two-three from each’ crown; barren branch linear

or lincar-lanceolate, small, thick, fleshy ; fertile branch linear-oblong apiculate

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATE.

Corm-like Crown forming a thickened, oblong-fusiform blunt descending axis (rhizome, Prest), the
terminal bud or growing point conical, and enclosed by a few brown membranaceous sheaths,
coarse, brittle, fleshy, spreading or descending, unbranched, growing irregularly from tho axis, one (or
more?) becoming elongated in а stolon-like manner, and producing а new crown towards its extremity
Stipes егесі, smooth, cylindrical, succulent, one-third to one-half the height of the frond, furnished
with two or three slender vascular bundles, the base enclosed by membr
which are taper-pointed above, dilated below; divided into a separate fertile and barren branch or
terminating in a barren frond.
Vernation ylicate or folded straight.
Fronds from one to three inches high, thick and fleshy or succulent in texture, of а pule-green
colour. Sterile radical fronds (commonly but not always accompanying the fertile fronds) linear
lanceolate, smooth, tapering below into the stalk or stipes, Sterile branch of the fertile fronds linear
or more frequently linear-lanceolate, tapered below to its junction with the fertile branch, spreading,

bluntish, from three-fourths of an inch to one and a half inch long, somewhat elevated at the margins,

THE DWARF ADDERS TONGUE,

Fertile branch erect, taller than the barren, consist a spike, supported on a longish stalk which
is thickened upwards and becomes broad, fleshy, and flattened at the base of the spike ; apie linear

oblong, apiculate, about half an inch long, often rather widened a little above the baso, fleshy, and

bearing along each margin from three to six spore-cases, A barren frond generally accompanies the

fertile frond, and sometimes more than one fertile frond is produced from one crown.

Venation of the barren branch, consisting of a series of uniform veins (no midvein) furcately
branching, so as to produce a series of nearly parallel venules, which here and there anastomosc
forming a few long narrow arcolos, Теге are apparently no free included кєй.

wetification occupying the margins of the spike. Spore-cases smooth, spherical, without rings or
reticulations, embedded in a single series of from three to six, in each margin of the spike, bursting
transversely. Spores smooth, roundish or angular, pale-coloured.

Duration. The crown and roots appear to be perennial, though it has been suggested that they
fare biennial. ‘The perennial character of the plant may perhaps be maintained by the successivo
production of crowns. "The habits of the whole group Ophiaglossacee are, however, little known.

fronds are annual, growing up in winter, and fully developed by the middle of January.

This curious little plant, one of the most recent additions to the list of British species, may be known
from the Common Adders Tongue by its small size, its thick fleshy texture, and the narrow outline of
Ше sterile branch of its frond, "The plants average about a couple of inches in height, and rarely
exceed three inches. It is an extremely interesting plant; and wo think may fairly be allowed to
remain separate from O. ewlyatum—unless indeed in the Vegetable kingdom we must adopt the rule of
combining under the name of a species a lengthened series of widely dissimilar forms, if they happen
to be at all seemingly connected ; a practico, which at the least would be equally inconvenient with the
more fashionable mania for subdivision and separation. As in other simple-fronded genera, the species
are, however, really difficult of limitation

‘The most successful attempts that have been mado to cultivate this little plant have consisted in
taking up the plant, in little clods of soil, and planting them in a compost of sandy loam, which
resembles the soil in which they naturally grow. In this way, the plants may be occasionally preserved
‘and induced to reappear at the proper season ; but like all the allied species it can hardly be considered

as a manageable plant in the eultivator's hands,

Foot

Top

Fore

Spine

THE FERNS
OR GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND. |

NATURE PRINTED.