Be cnc AND Bureau Nature Study, — CORWETT UINTVERCTTY, Ithaca, N-¥. Cornell University Library OF THE Mew Work State College of Hgriculture Rime K Ftetioae ee 8806 DATE DUE | WAY 1 §,1977 __ DEC} 4 3029 | Tes Ii [_ f com OF “Ve 4 4 | ‘ | ae MAY Ng loaf K i Ate Se ~ — TS Ornell University Library New England ferns and their common allie Cornell University The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924000525729 NEW ENGLAND FERNS AND THEIR COMMON ALLIES N BULBLET BLADDER FER NEW ENGLAND FERNS AND THEIR COMMON ALLIES AN EASY METHOD OF DETERMINING THE SPECIES « BY HELEN EASTMAN ILLUSTRATED BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY Che Riverside Press, Cambridge 1904 er de be ! COPYRIGHT 1904 BY HELEN EASTMAN ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published July 1904 PREFACE TueE study of ferns has been considered very difficult ; indeed, almost too puzzling for the person of average ability to undertake. Hence many lovers of nature remain unacquainted with these beautiful plant forms, so far as knowing their names, habits, and haunts is concerned. It is surprising how the difficulties vanish when one is thoroughly intent on overcoming them ; and the task is a fascinating one. In recent years there has been a manifest and growing desire on the part of many to gain some knowledge of the subject. With the increase of interest, arises a demand for an illustrated field- book that shall be concise, inexpensive, and adapted to the needs of the beginner. It is with a view to supplying this demand that the fol- lowing pages have been prepared. No minutely detailed description has been given of any of the plants, but sufficient will be found, with the aid of the illustrations, to enable one easily to identify the different spe- cies. Whenever two species resemble each other, vi PREFACE the distinguishing points of difference have been clearly noted, and if these are carefully studied, any difficulty in determining them will be obviated. In the Fern Family much confusion is apt to arise from laying too much stress on the indu- sium as a means of identification, since it must be found in a certain stage of development to be of value in determining the species. Just ‘when it is properly mature, the beginner is not likely to know, and not a few students have be- come discouraged at the outset by this method of identification which is made prominent in nearly all botanical works. Hence I have endeavored to set forth other points of difference which are more stable, and come more easily under the observation of the amateur, while the indusium has been described for those who depend upon it. The Fern Family has been treated first, it being considered the most important of the four families represented. The remaining three fami- lies follow in order, according to the beauty of their forms. Only a few of the more common species of the Club-Moss and Horsetail Families have been included. These are so often found during fern- hunts that one naturally desires to know some- thing about them. PREFACE vii The order of arrangement of the species has been made to suit the plates, which in a work of this kind must necessarily be limited in number. Sometimes two species which do not come in the usual botanical order have been grouped on the same plate. While the present work is limited in its treat- ment, it is hoped that by its aid many who have hitherto looked upon our ferns and evergreens with simply an admiring eye, may be able to recognize their different forms by name, learn their favorite haunts and the manner and time of fruiting, and thus become somewhat familiar with these common and beautiful plant forms which play such a conspicuous part in com- pleting the attractions of natural scenery. With the exception of a few of the illustra- tions, the photographs for the plates have been produced by an extirely original process by Wilbur Eastman and the author. Gray’s nomenclature has been used as being the one most popular, but Britton and Brown’s has been included in parentheses when it differs. While the author has had access to modern fern literature, the book is not a mere compila- tion, but comprises the results of years of per- sonal observation and study of the distinguish- ing characteristics of the species. vili PREFACE The writer is indebted to Mr. G. E. Daven- port for material furnished, and for a number of timely suggestions. HELEN EASTMAN. WELLS RIVER, VT. April, 1904. CONTENTS TABLE OF FRUITING SEASONS ‘ ; “ TABLE OF PREFERRED HABITATS HINTS TO THE BEGINNER FERN FAMILY : < i “ F r ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY CLus-Moss FAMILY. - : ‘i HORSETAIL FAMILY . : ‘ * : KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS > i GLOSSARY : : ‘ ‘ . . a INDEX . ; ei : F i a - LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS PLATE I. II. III. IV. Vv. VIL VII. VI. IX. X. XI. XII. XIII. XIV. XV. XVI. XVII. XVIII. XIX. XX. XXI. XXII. XXIII. XXIV. XXV. XXXVI XXVIL. XXVIII. PAGE BuLBLET BLADDER FERN . Frontispiece COMMON POLYPODY; WALKING FERN 2 Oak FERN; LoNG BEECH FERN , 6 BRoAD BEECH FERN. : 3 e =9) MARSH FERN . ‘ ’ ‘ ‘ 13 New YorkK FERN . . Aft DobDGE’s FERN; SPINULOSE Wau Frey 17 ASPIDIUM SPINULOSUM var. INTERMEDIUM 18 FERTILE PINN OF ASPIDIUMS . : : aE Boorr’s SHIELD FERN ; 22 MARGINAL SHIELD FERN; Porn TA ER: PORTIL . : 25 CRESTED SHIELD Fern A i ; ‘ 26 CRESTED MARGINAL FERN . : : + 330) GoLpIr’s FERN . ‘ : : : : 34 PITTSFORD SHIELD FERN. : ; Ay CHRISTMAS FERN; Var. INCISUM . : 38 Braun's HOLLY FERN . - : ; sh VIRGINIA CHAIN FERN . ‘ - ‘ 2 NET-VEINED CHAIN FERN . e - 45 NET-VEINED CHAIN FERN; ROYAL Paks 46 RoyAL FERN . ‘ a “ : ‘ - 49 CINNAMON FERN : , . i F 50 INTERRUPTED FERN : ‘ : - 2 53 INTERRUPTED FERN . ‘ : ‘ . 54 INTERRUPTED FERN ‘ ; . F = 255 OsTRICH FERN . . : 56 OsTRICH FERN; Sunstinre FERN . ~ 39 Harry DICKSONIA; SENSITIVE FERN. 65 xii LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS XXIX. FRAGILE BLADDER FERN; BULBLET BLAD- DER FERN 5 : 4 é G9) XXX. FRAGILE BLADDER Been : 70 > PURPLE CLIFF BRAKE; COMMON eRe 74 XXXII. SLENDER CLIFF BRAKE . , . ‘ OWA XXXIII. CLimMBiInc FERN . 5 4 . a 2078 XXXIV. MAIDENHAIR . , 5 : 3 : 81 XXXV. MAIDENHAIR : noe XXXVI. NORTHERN WOODSIA; fecons aOODETA Rusty Woopsia. ; 85 XXXVII. BLUN?T-LOBED WoopsiA; moet Sige wort; Var. HORVONH . . go XXXVIII. GREEN SPLEENWORT; WALL RUE Sprrene WORT; MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT ; MOouNTAIN SPLEENWORT; PINNATIFID SPLEENWORT : : r 5 97 XXXIX. NARROW-LEAVED Soci A . 101 XL. SILVERY SPLEENWORT . : : a) S802 XLI. Lapy FERN - . 106 XLII Common GRAPE Pear: Ciscoe een FERN si : = EL3) XLII. BorrycHIuM TERNATUM EE INTER- MEDIUM . : 5 : F . pay. XLIV. BoTRyCHIUM TERNATUM var. RUTAFO- LIUM; LITTLE GRAPE FERN; MATRICARY GRAPE FERN : é E : - 118 XLV. RATTLESNAKE FERN; ADDER’S-TONGUE . 122 XLVI. FEstoon GROUND PINE. : - 126 XLVIL. Tree Cius-Moss; STIFF CLUB- Moss . 129 XLVIII. Swamp EVERGREEN; Fir CLus-Moss. 130 XLIX. Common CLus- Moss . - 133 L. Woop HorRsETAIL ; ScouRING-RUSH 492138 LI. Fir_p HorseETalL; PIPES. & é . 141 LII. SEDGE-LIKE HORSETAIL . o : edz FRUITING SEASONS OF THE SEVERAL SPECIES. Ir will be noticed that more species fruit in July than in any other month. A few early fruiting species mature very rapidly, hence great watchful- ness is necessary if one wishes to find the fruit at its best. APRIL, MAY. Field Horsetail. Sedge-like Horsetail. MAY. Interrupted Fern. Wood Horsetail. MAY, JUNE. Cinnamon Fern. Little Grape Fern. JUNE, Rusty Woodsia. JUNE, JULY. Adder’s-Tongue. Fragile Bladder Fern. Lance-leaved Grape Fern. xiv FRUITING SEASONS Matricary Grape Fern. Moonwort. Royal Fern. Scouring-Rush. Rattlesnake Fern. JULY. Blunt-lobed Woodsia. Boott’s Shield Fern. Broad Beech Fern. Bulblet Bladder Fern. Clinton’s Wood Fern. Common Club-Moss. Common Polypody. Crested Marginal Fern. Crested Shield Fern. Ebony Spleenwort. Festoon Ground Pine. Fragrant Shield Fern. Goldie’s Fern. Hairy Dicksonia. Long Beech Fern. Maidenhair Spleenwort. Mountain Spleenwort. New York Fern. Northern Woodsia. Oak Fern. Pinnatifid Spleenwort. Pipes. Smooth Woodsia. Spinulose Wood Fern. FRUITING SEASONS Stiff Club-Moss. Tree Club-Moss. Walking Fern. Wall Rue Spleenwort. JULY, AUGUST. Christmas Fern. Green Spleenwort. Lady Fern. Maidenhair. Purple Cliff Brake. Sensitive Fern. Slender Cliff Brake. Virginia Chain Fern. JULY TO SEPTEMBER. Silvery Spleenwort. AUGUST. Braun’s Holly Fern. Common Brake. Fir Club-Moss. Marginal Wood Fern. Marsh Fern. Ostrich Fern. Scott’s Spleenwort. Swamp Evergreen. AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, Dodge’s Fern. Net-veined Chain Fern. XV xvi PREFERRED HABITATS SEPTEMBER. Climbing Fern. Narrow-leaved Spleenwort. SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER. Common Grape Fern. Dissected Grape Fern. PREFERRED HABITATS OF THE SEVERAL SPECIES. Dry rocks and cliffs, with more or less shade. Common Polypody. Fragrant Shield Fern. (High altitudes.) Pinnatifid Spleenwort. Rusty Woodsia. Moist cliffs, with shade. Fragile Bladder Fern. Green Spleenwort. (High altitudes.) Mountain Spleenwort. Northern Woodsia. (High altitudes.) Smooth Woodsia. (High altitudes.) Dry calcareous rocks and cliffs, with more or less shade. Purple Cliff Brake. Scott’s Spleenwort. Walking Fern. Wall Rue Spleenwort. PREFERRED HABITATS xvii Moist calcareous rocks and cliffs. Bulblet Bladder Fern. Maidenhair Spleenwort. Slender Cliff Brake. Moist thickets, marshes and swamps. Boott’s Shield Fern. Cinnamon Fern. Climbing Fern. Clinton’s Wood Fern. Crested Marginal Fern. Crested Shield Fern. Dodge’s Fern. Net-veined Chain Fern. New York Fern. Royal Fern. Virginia Chain Fern. Moist open situations. Adder’s-Tongue. Dissected Grape Fern. Interrupted Fern. Little Grape Fern. Marsh Fern. Ostrich Fern. Moist low ground and along streams. Scouring-Rush. Sensitive Fern. xviii PREFERRED HABITATS Moist gravelly or sandy soit. Field Horsetail. Lich woods, more or less moist. Braun’s Holly Fern. (2000 feet altitude.) Broad Beech Fern. Christmas Fern. Club-Mosses. Common Grape Fern. Goldie’s Fern. Lance-leaved Grape Fern. Long Beech Fern. Maidenhair. Matricary Grape Fern. Narrow-leaved Spleenwort. Rattlesnake Fern. Sedge-like Horsetail. Silvery Spleenwort. Spinulose Wood Fern. Wood Horsetail. Stony soil, with more or less shade. Hairy Dicksonia. (Light soil.) Marginal Shield Fern. (Rich soil.) Shaded, rocky banks. Blunt-lobed Woodsia. Ebony Spleenwort. (Prefers limestone soil.) PREFERRED HABITATS xix Shallow water. Pipes. Woods, pastures, and waste land, Common Brake. Lady Fern. Moonwort. HINTS TO THE BEGINNER 1. Remember that the plates are made ona reduced scale and always consult the text with reference to size of the species. 2. Consult the glossary when in doubt as to the meaning of terms. 3. Be careful to note the distinguishing points of difference, and remember that size and position of fruit-dots frequently aid in the iden- tification of the fern. 4. Note also that the vernzng, margin, and form of the pinnae, the form of the entire frond or of the 7zp only, and the color, length, and sur- face of the ste and rachis, sometimes assist in determining the species of ferns. 5. Compare the specimen carefully with the text and illustration. Note its manner of growth and habitat. 6. It is well to bear in mind the fact that a young fern is sometimes lighter in color, finer in texture, and that the pinnz are often not so fully developed as in mature fronds. 7. May we add the caution that if any species is found not known to be common, care be taken not to uproot any part of it? FILICES FERN FAMILY COMMON POLYPODY. a. Fertile frond WALKING FERN. 4. Fertile frond. c. Sterile frond. d. Sterile frond showing young plant at the tip FERN FAMILY : POLYPODIUM. Polypody. Tue name is from the Greek polus, many, and pous, foot, referring to the branching root- stock. COMMON POLYPODY. Polypodium vulgare. Frond evergreen, somewhat leathery in tex- ture, smooth, and deeply pinnatifid; the divi- sions obtuse, alternate, obscurely toothed, ex- tending nearly to the rachis and broadening to meet each other there. The midveins make a deep impression on the upper surface of the lobes. The ferns grow from four to ten inches high, in tangled groups, springing from a creep- ing, branched rootstock. They are found on dry, shady rocks and cliffs, and sometimes in woods. The Polypody is one of our most common species. Other names for it are Rock and Snake Fern. The fruit-dots are naked, round, and very large, arranged in a row each side of the midvein, 4 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES midway between it and the margin. They are found on the upper half or more of the frond, and mature in July. CAMPTOSORUS. Walking Leaf. The name is from the Greek kamzptos, bent, and sovos, a heap, for fruit-dot, referring to the form of the fruit. WALKING FERN. Camptosorus rhizophyllus. Frond from four to twelve inches long, ever- green, heart-shaped or hastate at the base, en- tire, tapering to a very long, slender point, which, when coming in contact with the soil, takes root and forms a new plant. Its manner of growth suggests steps, whence its common names of Walking Fern or Walking Leaf. This fern was formerly given as an Aspleninum, and Pinnatifid Spleenwort was considered a variety. It grows in tufts on dry, shaded rocks, pre- ferably limestone. In texture it is somewhat leathery. It is an odd and rare fern, although it might be called locally common in a few sec- tions, especially in southern and western New England. The fruit-dots are oblong, very large, and ir- regularly scattered on the under surface of the OAK FERN. a. Fertile frond LONG BEECH FERN. 4. Fertile frond FERN FAMILY 7 frond, more plentifully at the base. The outer ones are often in pairs so that the indusia open face to face, finally becoming confluent and forming crooked lines. Time of maturity, July. PHEGOPTERIS. Beech Fern. The name is from the Greek p/egos, an oak or beech tree, and fferzs, a fern. The Beech ferns were formerly classed in the genus Polypodium. OAK FERN. Phegopterts Dryopterts. Frond ternate, broadly triangular, from three to five inches wide, the three primary divisions stalked, pinnate, also triangular. The segments are oblong, obtuse, sometimes toothed, and on the lower side of the lateral divisions they are longer than on the upper side. The branches are drooping. The stipe is very long and slen- der, darker, and slightly chaffy at the base. This is a very delicate fern, from afew inches to one foot in height, erowing in moist, rocky woods. It is quite common in northern New England, but occurs less frequently in the southern part. The fruit-dots are naked, round, and small, near the margin. They mature in July. 8 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES LONG BEECH FERN. Phegopteris polypodioides (P. phegopteris). Frond twice pinnatifid, triangular, but longer than it is broad, pale green and downy-hairy, especially beneath. The pinnz are divided into obtuse, oblong, entire segments, the basal ones united to the winged rachis, with the lowest pair sometimes shorter and usually deflexed or bending forward, giving the fern a peculiarly graceful appearance. The fronds grow from five to ten inches high, on long stipes, from a creeping rootstock, and are often found in beds. We may look for this fern in moist, shady places, frequently with the others of this genus, of which it is the most common, especially in the north. The fruit-dots are naked, small and near the margin; they mature in July. BROAD BEECH FERN. Phegopteris hexagonoptera. Frond twice pinnatifid, triangular, usually broader than it is long, and slightly downy- hairy ; the pinnee are sessile, and form an angled wing along the rachis. The upper pinnz are ob- long, obtuse, entire or toothed, —the lowest BROAD BEECH FERN FERN FAMILY II pair very large and long, broadest in the middle and pinnately lobed, the segments serrate. While similar in form to the Long Beech Fern, there are points of difference which can- not fail to distinguish it. It is more broadly triangular, —often from five to ten inches broad, Beech Fern. It is also darker in color, thinner and grows more erect than the Long in texture, and the lowest pinnz are broader, much elongated, and are not often deflerved. It grows in similar situations with the others of this group, viz., moist, shaded places, but it prefers open woods. It is a common fern in southern New Iengland, but is found only occa- sionally in the north. The fruit-dots are naked, round, small, and not exclusively near the margin, although mostly so. They mature in July. ASPIDIUM. Shield Fern. Wood Fern. The name is from the Greek aspzdion, a small shield, referring to the form of the indusium. This is kidney-shaped or circular, fixed either at the sinus or centrally. Another nomenclature which is rapidly gain- ing in favor, includes under NEpHRopium all species with zdney-shaped indusia, and under Potysticuum all species with free vezms and circular industa fixed centrally. 12 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES The favorite habitat of several species of this genus is woods. A number of the species are evergreen and include some of our most beauti- ful ferns. MARSH FERN. Aspidium Thelypteris (Dryopteris Thelypteris). Frond pinnate, the pinnz horizontal or at right angles to the rachis, and deeply cut into segments which are oblong, obtuse, and entire, or occasionally coarsely toothed, with the veins mostly forked. This is a fern of delicate texture, found abun- dantly in moist, open places, often growing two feet or more high. It is sometimes called the Meadow Fern. It bears some resemblance to both the New York and Dodge’s Ferns, —see the de- scription of these ferns for the distinguishing points of difference. Two features we will mention here which may aid in its identifica- tion. The stipe is smooth and wuusually long, and the pinne are broadest next to the rachis. The young fronds are often sweet-scented, —sometimes when fresh and under a hot sun, but.more often while drying after being picked. The fertile fronds are sometimes paler when young than the sterile, but grow darker with age, and when fruited the pinne recurve or MARSH FERN. a. Pinna from an occasional form NEW YORK FERN FERN FAMILY 15 twist out of a horizontal position, the tips often bending downward. The fruit-dots are small, and soon become confluent near the margin, which is strongly re- flexed. They mature in August. The indusium is delicate, kidney-shaped, and fixed by its sinus. NEW YORK FERN. Aspidium Noveboracense (Dryopteris Noveboracensis). Frond pinnate, the pinnze deeply cut into narrow, oblong, obtuse, and entire segments, — the lower pairs of pinnz gradually becoming shorter, often reducing to mere lobes. It is slightly hairy on the under surface following the veining, which is simple. It is very noticeable for its oval outline, the frond tapering both ways from the middle. This alone serves to distinguish it from the Marsh and Dodge’s Ferns, to which in some other points it is similar. It is also a paler shade of green and more delicate than the former fern, andits manner of growth is much more graceful. It is said to prefer swamps and moist thickets, although we have seen it, apparently at its best, in somewhat dry, shady situations. It grows from one to two feet high, and is quite common, frequently being found in large beds. The fruit-dots are distinct and near the mar- gin, which is not revolute. They mature in 16 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES July. The indusium is minute, kidney-shaped, with glandular margin, and is fixed by its sinus. DODGE’S FERN (MASSACHUSETTS FERN). Aspidium simulatum (Dryopteris simulata). Frond pinnate, the pinnz deeply cut into ob- long, obtuse, entire, or slightly toothed lobes. The fern is delicate in texture and downy- hairy in all its parts, especially along the mid- veins. The margin of the lobes has a few coarser hairs. The stipe is slightly chaffy at the base. It bears some resemblance to the New York Fern, but can be identified readily by its form, which isa ¢@r2fle narrower at the dase than in the middle. In this and many other respects it is very similar to the Marsh Fern. But two points will aid in its determination. The pinnze are usually dvoadest in the mzdadle, and the veins are s7mple. The fronds grow singly or sometimes in clusters, and are from one to nearly three feet high. This fern prefers cool, woodland swamps. It is rare in northern New England, and not com- mon in the southern part. The sterile fronds appear first, much shorter, but similar in form to the fertile ones which come up late in the season. The fruit-dots are distinct, larger than in the ‘ eh AD 24 J De A y 7 * wif ee ' rae a a a 2 b Sg 4 Seo : SAS cen DODGE’'S FERN. a. Tip of frond, showing a few fruit dots SPINULOSE WOOD FERN. 4. Small frond ASPIDIUM SPINULOSUM var. intermedium FERN FAMILY 19 preceding two species, and near the margin, which is sometimes reflexed when the fern grows inthe sun. The fruit is brown when mature, late in August or in September. The indusium is kidney-shaped, finely glandular, withering, and persistent. SPINULOSE WOOD FERN. Aspidium spinulosum (Dryopteris spinulosa). Frond twice pinnate, the pinnze oblique to the rachis, the lower pairs broadly triangular. The pinnules are set obliquely to the midrib, and connected by a very narrow wing. They are oblong, acute, incised or deeply cut into spiny-toothed lobes. The stipe is rather long and somewhat chaffy. This fern prefers moist, rich woods, and is found only occasionally. It grows from one to two and one half feet high. The fronds have a somewhat stiff appearance, perhaps owing to their erect manner of growth. The fruit-dots are small and midway between the midvein and margin. They mature in July. The indusium is smooth, round-kidney- shaped, and fixed by its sinus. Var. cntermedium (Var. intermedia). Frond from two to three pinnate, the pin- nz oblong-lanceolate, obtuse, spreading; pin- 20 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES nules crowded, pinnately parted, spiny-toothed at the apex. The lowest pinnae are unequally triangular-ovate in form, the pinnules being considerably longer on the lower side than those on the upper side. The stipe is slightly chaffy. The fronds are from one to two and one half feet long, and are evergreen, lying flat during the winter. This is a beautiful, feathery fern, abounding in woods throughout our range, being much more common than the type form. The fruit-dots are round and small; they mature in July. The indusium is glandular. Var. dilatatum (War. dilatata). This is a form found principally in mountain woods. The frond is tripinnate, the lowest pair of pinnz triangular in form, the pinnules on the lower side being conspicuously elongated. It can be distinguished from var: zxtermedium by its broadly ovate outline. The indusium is smooth and naked. PURDIE’S CONCORD NEPHRODIUM. Aspidium spinulosum Concordianum (Dryopteris spinulosa Concordiana). This is a fern discovered in a rich woodland swamp in Concord, Massachusetts, in 1902, by FERTILE PINN OF ASPIDIUMS a. Marsh Fern. 6. New York Fern. c. Goldie’s Fern. d. Crested Shield Fern BOOTT’S SHIELD FERN. Tip of frond FERN FAMILY 23 H. A. Purdie, and described by G. E. Daven- port in “ Rhodora,” February, 1904. It is much more finely divided than var. zvfer- medium, with the general outline of var. dz/a- tatum. The fronds are tripinnate throughout, the pinne somewhat triangular, with long, tapering tips. The frond gradually narrows to a point from below the middle. The pinnules on the lower side of the basal pinnze are longer than those on the upper, being sometimes two inches in length. The ultimate segments are narrow, often stalked, and deeply cut into oblique divisions. The stipe is channeled in front and is very scaly, especially at the base. The main rachis and also the secondary rachides or midribs of the pinne are chaffy and scaly throughout. The fern grows to the height of nearly three feet. The fruit-dots do not appear on the apex of the frond. The indusia are minutely glandular. BOOTT’S SHIELD FERN. Aspidium Boottii (Dryopteris Boottii). Frond nearly twice pinnate, the lowest pin- nz triangular-ovate, the upper, longer and nar- rower; pinnules broadly-oblong, obtuse, the lower pinnatifid, the upper spiny-toothed. The stipe is chaffy, especially at the base. 24, FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES This fern was formerly considered a variety of the Spinulose Wood Fern, and somewhat re- sembles var. zz¢termedium, but it can be deter- mined by the form of the frond, which xarrows somewhat at the dase, also by the pinnules, which are less deeply cut. It is noticeable for the erect growth of the fronds, which are from one to two and one half feet high. It is found in wet thickets and about ponds frequently. The sterile fronds are usually smaller than the fertile ones, and are evergreen. The fruit-dots are large ; they mature in July. The indusium is minutely glandular, round- kidney-shaped, and fixed by its sinus. MARGINAL SHIELD FERN. Aspidium marginale (Dryopteris marginalis). Frond twice pinnate, the pinnz lanceolate, broadest a little above the base. The pinnules are oblong-scythe-shaped, obtuse or pointed, entire, crenately toothed, or occasionally deeply cut, the upper ones becoming confluent at the tip. The stipe and rachis are channeled, and, in large fronds, the midribs of the pinne. The stipe is very chaffy. This is a well-preserved evergreen fern, and is sometimes called the Evergreen Wood Fern. a. MARGINAL SHIELD FERN & FORMA DAVENPORTII. Tip of frond CRESTED SHIELD FERN FERN FAMILY 27) The fronds lie on the ground during the winter. It grows everywhere, especially in hilly and rocky places, varying greatly in height from a few inches to two feet, according to its loca- tion. There is a great contrast in the color of the young and old fronds, the young ones being a light, delicate green, the mature ones rather dark blue-green, smooth, and somewhat leathery in texture, with conspicuous veining. The fruit-dots are large, round, and close to the margin, whence the common name of the fern. They mature in August. The indusium is smooth, fixed by its sinus, and persistent. We illustrate forma Davenportit which is crested and variable. CRESTED SHIELD FERN. Aspidium cristatum (Dryopteris cristata). Frond lance-shaped or linear-oblong in out- line, narrowing slightly at the base. It is nearly twice pinnate, the pinnz deeply cut into obtuse, oblong, finely serrate, or toothed divisions. The lower pairs of the pinnz are broadest at the base and somewhat triangular in form.- Some- times a few of the lowest lobes near the rachis extend nearly to the secondary rachis or mid- vein. The veins make a deep impression on the 28 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES upper surfaces of the pinnz, which are quite heavy in texture. The stipe is chaffy. Its habitat is swamps, where it is found rather common, growing from one to two feet high. The sterile fronds lie close to the ground and are broader and shorter than the fertile ones. They also have shorter stipes and are evergreen. The fruit-dots are large, half-way between the midrib and margin; they mature in July. The thin indusia are smooth, naked, and round- kidney-shaped, the sinus shallow. CLINTON’S WOOD FERN. Aspidium cristatum Clintonianum (Dryopleris cris- tata Clintoniana). This is a larger fern than the typical form, being from two to three feet high. Frond nearly twice pinnate; pinnz deeply pinnatifid, the divisions linear-oblong, obtuse, obscurely ser- rate, or the lowest ones sometimes pinnately lobed. The stipe is chaffy, with bright brown scales. It is usually found with the type in swampy woods, but is not termed common. It is a showy fern, and is often mistaken for Goldie’s Fern, but may be distinguished by the pinnae being broadest at the base, also by the color, which is lighter green. CRESTED MARGINAL FERN. Tip of frond. a. Fertile pinna FERN FAMILY 31 The fruit-dots are round, large, and near the midrib; they mature in July. The indusium is thin, smooth, and fixed by a shallow sinus. CRESTED MARGINAL FERN. Aspidium cristatum x marginale (Dryopteris cristata x marginalts). Frond pinnate, the pinnz variable ; the lower one-third having the appearance of A. cristatum, with stalked, triangular-ovate, od/wse pinnee, cut into a few very obtuse, serrate divisions, which next to the rachis nearly reach the midrib, and are pinnatifid with toothed lobes; the upper two-thirds resembling A. marginale, with pin- nz. short-stalked, long, pointed, cut into oblong, obtuse, slightly curved, entire or finely serrate divisions, those near the rachis cut almost to the midrib and again pinnatifid with toothed lobes. The veining is quite conspicuously de- pressed. The stipe is long, channeled, and both that and the rachis are usually scaly or chaffy. The fronds are somewhat leathery in texture, They are from one foot to two and one half feet high, and from four to eight or nine inches broad in the middle, tapering both ways, al- though not narrowing fully down at the base. The sterile fronds are smaller than the fertile. This fern is found in the borders of swamps. It seems to occur rarely in northern New Eng- 32 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES land, possibly because it is not recognized, and it is not acommon species in the southern part, being found only occasionally. The Crested Marginal Fern is a hybrid be- tween A. marginale and A. cristatum, bearing strong resemblance to the latter. It can be distinguished by its fronds growing zz crowns, the very broad upper two-thirds of the fronds, and by the ¢apering pinne. From the Marginal Shield Fern it can read- ily be determined by the short, obtuse, triangular pinne of the lower one-third of the frond. The fruit-dots are rather large, nearer the margin than the midvein. The indusia are smooth, and convex before mature, in August. FPRAGRANT SHIELD FERN. Aspidium fragrans (Dryopteris fragrans). Frond nearly twice pinnate, the pinnze deeply parted into crowded, oblong, obtuse, toothed or nearly entire lobes or segments. The stipe and rachis are chaffy. The fronds are lanceolate in form, slightly narrowed at the base. They grow in a crown, and are small, being from four to twelve inches high. They are fragrant, whence the name. This fern grows in the mountains of north- ern New England, on dry rocks and cliffs near falling water. GOLDIE’S FERN. Tip of frond FERN FAMILY 35 The fruit-dots are round and large, nearly covering the under surfaces of the pinnz at maturity in July. The thin indusia are imbri- cated and persistent, with margin ragged and slightly glandular, the sinus narrow. GOLDIE’S FERN. Aspidium Goldianum (Dryopteris Goldieana). Frond broadly ovate, pinnate, the pinnz from six to nine inches long, pinnately parted into about twenty pairs of slightly scythe-shaped seg- ments, which are serrate with appressed teeth. The pinne are broadest in the middle, one distinguishing difference between this and Clin- ton’s Wood Fern. The fronds are also very broad, and rather suddenly narrowed at the tip, another distinction from Clinton’s Wood Fern. They grow in a circle from the rootstock and are dark blue-green in color. The stipe is long, chaffy at the base. This is the tallest of our wood ferns, -— from two to four feet high, — and on account of the demand by florists it is fast becoming rare here in New England. It never has been common, not having been found in many localities favor- able to its growth. Its preferred habitat is rich, moist woods. Gray calls it a ‘stately fern,’ and it certainly is well termed. The fertile frond is narrower than 36 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES the sterile, with round fruit-dots near the midvein which mature in July. The indusium is large, smooth, and persistent, fixed by a narrow sinus, the sides of which often overlap, thus causing the indusium to appear round and entire. PITTSFORD SHIELD FERN. Aspidium Pittsfordense (Dryopteris Pittsfordensis). This fern is a new species discovered by Mar- garet Slosson in Pittsford, Vermont, in 1895, and described by her in “ Rhodora” of April, 1904. It was found growing by the. roadside near Aspidium marginale and a form of Aspidium spimulosum and is thought to be a hybrid be- tween them. The frond is bipinnate or sometimes tri- pinnate below. Pinnz mostly ovate with long tapering tips ; the lowest pair much the broadest and triangular in form. The pinnules are set obliquely to the midrib, connected by a narrow wing, and on the lower side of the secondary rachis or midrib are much longer than those on the upper side. They are oblong, deeply cut into lobes which are irregularly spiny-toothed. The veins are forked. The stipe is scaly, densely so at the base, be- coming chaffy along the main rachis and some- what so on the midribs of the pinnz. Both stipe and rachis are grooved. PG MN. CHRISTMAS FERN a. Small frond. 4. Tip of fertile frond. c. Portion showing pinnz of var. incisum FERN FAMILY 39 The fern grows from one and one half to two or more feet in height. It is somewhat leathery in texture. It resembles the Spinulose Wood Fern, but is darker, or b/ue-green in color, and the outline of both fronds and pinnz is more pointed. The fruit-dots are near the margin, kidney- shaped, and covered with leathery indusia. CHRISTMAS FERN. Aspidium acrostichoides (Polystichum acrostichoides). Frond pinnate, the pinnze somewhat scythe- shaped, half-halberd-shaped at the base, serru- late with appressed teeth. It is from six inches to two feet high, thick, evergreen, and shining. The stipes are chaffy. The mature fronds are rather dark green in color and somewhat leathery in texture, with pinnz from one to two inches long, short-stalked, and usually alternate. This is a common fern, especially northward, growing in woods, on hillsides, and in ravines. It is much used for decorations at Christmas time, whence its common name. The fertile fronds are taller than the sterile, the fruiting pinnz, which are at the top and in- clude about one third of the frond, being con- tracted and smaller than the others. The fruit-dots are round, generally in two rows near the midrib, and become confluent. 4o FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES They mature in July and August. The indusia are circular and entire, fixed by the depressed centre, and persistent. Var. incisum (Schweinitziz). This fern is so much like the typical form, growing also in similar situations, that to the untrained eye it would scarcely be distinguished unless closely examined. It is found only occa- sionally,and can always be readily determined by the deeply incised pinne. Its manner of fruiting is also somewhat dif- ferent from the type. Instead of the fruit be- ing wholly confined to the pinnz at the upper portion of the frond, a few fruit-dots may be found on the tips of the lower pinnz, becom- ing less as the base is neared. They mature at the same time as in the type, —in July and August. Another variety of the Christmas Fern, cris- pum, in which the pinnz are ruffled, is also occasionally found. BRAUN’S HOLLY FERN. Aspidium aculeatum Braunii (Polystichum Braunit). Frond twice pinnate, with many pairs of ob- long-lanceolate pinnz ; pinnules oblong, obtuse, short-stalked, sharply toothed, one-sided, and nearly rectangular at the base. The pinnz are BRAUN’S HOLLY FERN. Tip of frond VIRGINIA CHAIN FERN. Tip of frond FERN FAMILY 43 covered with long and soft hairs, and are chaffy on the under side; the stipe and rachis also are very chaffy. The frond is oblong-lanceolate in form, taper- ing both ways from the middle, the lower pinnze being gradually reduced in size. This fern was first discovered on Mt. Mans- field, Vermont, by Pursh in 1807. It is consid- ered by some to be a distinct species. It may be termed rare, as it is seldom if ever found below 2000 feet altitude, growing in deep, moist woods in northern New England. The fronds are from one to two and one half feet long, and grow in crowns. The fruit-dots are round and near the mid- vein ; they mature in August. The indusium is circular and entire, fixed by the depressed centre. WOODWARDIA. Chain Fern. This genus was named for Thomas J. Wood- ward, an English botanist. The chain-like rows of the fruit dots give rise to the English title. VIRGINIA CHAIN FERN. Woodwardia Virginica. Frond pinnate, the pinnze deeply cut into ob- long, obscurely serrulate segments. The veins 44 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES form a row of meshes along the midribs both of the pinnz and segments, the outer ones being free. This is a large, broad fern, from two to three feet high, bearing some resemblance to the Osmundas, especially to the Cinnamon Fern. But in the Virginia Chain Fern the fronds grow sizgly, — not in crowns, —from a creeping root-stock six or eight feet in length. The pinne are also farther apart than in the Osmundas, and zarrowed a bit next to the rachis. It is sometimes called the Bog Fern. Its habitat is low places and swamps, often in water, usually near the coast, but occasion- ally it is found along the border of inland ponds. The fertile and sterile fronds are very similar in form and rather heavy in texture, pale green and somewhat glossy, with smooth, long, dark stipes. The fruit-dots are oblong, arranged in a chain-like row along the midribs both of the pinnz and lobes. They become confluent and very heavy when mature in July and Au- gust. The indusium is somewhat leathery, fixed by its outer margin to a veinlet, and opening on the side next to the midrib. NET-VEINED CHAIN FERN ertile tip of frond VEINED CHAI FERN FAMILY 47 NET-VEINED CHAIN FERN. Woodwardia angustifolia (W. areolata). The sterile fronds of this fern, which are the first to appear, are pinnatifid, with lanceolate divisions united by a broad wing, which becomes narrower at the base of the frond. The veining is a beautiful system of net-work. It grows in tufts from a creeping rootstock, and is found in swamps and wet woods usu- ally near the coast. It is a rare fern north of Massachusetts. The sterile fronds are one foot or more high, and at first glance resemble the sterile fronds of the Sensitive Fern. While both alike are pinnatifid, the divisions in this are mznztely toothed, and it cannot be confused with the Sensi- tive Fern if this difference is noted. Especially will any doubt be dispelled when the fertile fronds are seen. These appear in June, later than the sterile fronds, and are quite unlike them. They are several inches taller, with long, heavy stipes, both the stipe and rachis black and shining. The fronds are nearly pinnate, with widely separate, narrowly linear divisions, just wide enough to bear a single row of long, chain-like fruit-dots each side of the secondary midribs. These mature in August and Sep- tember. 48 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES The indusia are the same as in the preceding species. OSMUNDA. Flowering Fern. The name is from Osmunder, a Saxon name for the divinity Thor. The Osmundas are a group of ferns all of which are of large proportions. They produce but one crop of ferns each year unless dis- turbed, fruit very early, and are all among our most common species. They are frequently mis- called “ brakes.” None of the species of this genus have any indusia. ROYAL FERN. Osmunda regalis, Frond twice pinnate ; pinnz distant, opposite, each with several pairs of alternate pinnules, with an odd one at the end. These pinnules are an inch or more in length, entire, varying in form from oblong-oval to lance-oblong, finely toothed, and sessile or nearly so. The stipe and rachis are smooth and shining. The fronds grow in crowns, in swamps, wet woods and fields, and sometimes form hedges on the borders of ponds and lakes. They are pale green, very smooth and delicate, and from two to five feet high. a. ROYAL FERN. 42. Portion showing pinne CINNAMON FERN. a. Tip of sterile frond. 6. ‘Tip of fertile frond FERN FAMILY 51 This species is scarcely fern-like in appear- ance. The fresh fronds are especially beautiful in the spring when they have a pinkish tint. The fertile fronds grow in the middle of the crown of sterile ones, and are similar in form excepting at their summit, where the fruit forms ina flower-like panicle. It is from this resemblance to a flower that it sometimes re- ceives the name of Flowering Fern. The fer- tile portion is at first a yellowish green, becom- ing a rich brown after maturity in June and July. Unlike the other species of this genus, the fertile portion persists many weeks. This is the only fern of this genus that is found in Europe. CINNAMON FERN. Osmunda cinnamomea. Sterile fronds pinnate, the pinnz deeply cut into broadly oblong, obtuse, entire lobes. A bit of cinnamon-colored wool is often found at the base of each pinna. This and the ab- sence of the deeply channeled stipe of the Ostrich Fern are sufficient to distinguish it, when not in fruit, from the latter, which it re- sembles. A glance at the tips of all of the large ferns which bear resemblance to each other is often of service in determining the species, as the 52 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES difference in form is frequently more marked at the tips than elsewhere. Compare the illustra- tions. The Cinnamon Fern grows in swamps or wet places, in large bunches, and is very common. The sterile fronds appear a trifle later than the fertile ones, and grow taller, sometimes from three to five feet high. They are clothed with rusty wool when young. Occasional forms oc- cur with the type. The fertile fronds are few, from one to two feet high, erect, and in the centre of the crown at maturity. They are twice pinnate, contracted, and covered with sporangia which are at first a bright green, but later become cinnamon-colored and soon wither, leaving the sterile fronds to mature later. The fertile fronds usually mature in May or early in June. The pinnz of the sterile fronds of the Cin- namon Fern wither with the early frosts and fall from the rachides, leaving the crown of naked stems to stand somewhat erect during the winter, unless lodged by the weight of snow. INTERRUPTED FERN. Osmunda Claytoniana. Sterile fronds pinnate ; pinnz deeply pinnati- fid, with broad, oblong, obtuse, and entire lobes, which are more blunt than those of the Cinna- INTERRUPTED FERN. Portion of fertile frond INTERRUPTED FERN. Tip of frond INTERRUPTED FERN OSTRICH FERN. Tip of frond FERN FAMILY 57 mon Fern to which it bears some resemblance. It is sometimes called Clayton’s Fern. When young the fronds are covered with woolly hairs, but they soon become smooth, This is a common species, growing in crowns in low ground, often by the roadside, and pre- ferring stony soil. It fruits as the fronds unfold. The fertile fronds are the taller, — from two to four feet high, appearing in the middle of the crown at maturity, and surrounded by the shorter and gracefully drooping sterile fronds. The fertile fronds are similar in form to the sterile ones above and below the centre, where they are interrupted by from two to five pairs of contracted fertile pinnz which are entirely pinnate. These are at first greenish but soon become dark brown, withering and falling off by midsummer. The fruit matures rapidly in May. The pinnze of both sterile and fertile fronds wither with the early frosts and fall from the rachides as in the Cinnamon Fern. ONOCLEA. The name is from the Greek ovos, a vessel, and f£/ezo, to close, alluding to the berry-like fertile frond. 58 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES OSTRICH FERN. Onoclea Struthiopteris. By some this fern is restored to its original place under Struthiopteris Germanica. The sterile fronds, which are the first to appear, are pinnate, the pinnz linear-lanceolate, deeply cut into narrow, acute, slightly scythe-shaped lobes, with free veining. The middle pinnz are often eight inches long, the lowest ones mere lobes. The basal segments of the pinna — those next to the rachis — are elongated and meet the ones on the opposite side of the rachis, thus clasping it ina peculiar manner. The stipe and rachis are somewhat angular and very heavy. The fronds grow in a crown, the rootstock being raised several inches above the surface of the ground. This, and some of the Osmundas, are the tallest of our New England ferns, sometimes reaching the height of five feet or more, al- though commonly not more than three feet high. The Ostrich Fern is found in low, moist ground, frequently along streams. It is not a common species anywhere in New England, especially in the southern part. Those who are puzzled by any resemblance to the Cinnamon Fern can identify it easily, in OSTRICH FERN. a. Tip of fertile frond SENSITIVE FERN. 4. Fertile frond FERN FAMILY 61 the absence of fertile fronds, by the form of its sterile frond which ¢apfers both ways from the middle ; by the smooth, Leavy stipe and rachis, deeply channeled in front; the channeled mid- veins of the pinnz; and by the suddenly con- tracted tip of the frond. Its manner of growth is also different from that of the Cinnamon Fern. In the early season it is quite erect, while the fronds of the Cinnamon Fern are more spreading and gracefully drooping. Underground stolons spread from the root- stock, which in due time bear fronds. One root- stock of the Ostrich Fern coming under the author’s observation, during twenty years, in- creased in this manner to fifty plants. The fertile fronds are few, erect, closely grouped, very rigid and heavy, and appear in the middle of the crown of sterile fronds in July. They are from one foot to one and one half feet high, light green at first, but become very dark green or brownish in color. These fronds are pinnate, the necklace-shaped, contracted pinnz at first concealing the spore-cases. The fruit matures in August, but the spores do not escape until the following spring. The indusium is very delicate and hood-like. The fertile fronds remain erect during the winter, in spite of any weight of snow, and often may be found the second summer quite regular 62 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES in form. The sterile fronds wither with the autumn frosts. SENSITIVE FERN. Onoclea sensibilis. The sterile fronds are pinnatifid, often broadly triangular, with few, oblong-lanceolate divisions, — the lower ones nearly reaching the midrib, the upper ones less deeply cut, and all more or less wavy-toothed. The veins form a series of meshes. This is one of our most common species, growing in moist places in fields, by the road- side, and along streams, — in fact everywhere in low, moist land. It is too coarse to be called beautiful, and yet when found along streams by our roadsides, it adds variety to the scene, and has a charm all its own, with its peculiar form and delicate color. When found in exposed places it is usually only a few inches high, but in somewhat shady locations it often grows very rank, sometimes nearly two feet in height. The stipe is long. The fronds are scattering, pale green, smooth, delicate in texture although somewhat thick, and sensitive to early frosts. Possibly its com- mon name originated from this latter charac- teristic. It certainly is well named, for it is FERN FAMILY 63 really sensz¢ive, withering very quickly when picked. In some sections of New England this fern is wrongly called the “Polypod,”’ or “Polypod brake,” although it bears no resemblance to that species. There is quite a similarity in form to the Net-veined Chain Fern, but the divisions in the sterile frond of the Sensitive Fern are not minutely toothed as in the Net-veined Chain Fern, hence can be identified readily before the fertile fronds appear. These are usually few, and do not appear until June. They are twice pinnate and much contracted. The pinnules are so rolled as to become berry- shaped and inclose the fruit, which matures in July and August. The indusium is hood-shaped and very delicate. The fertile fronds bear some resemblance to the fruit of the Grape Ferns — Botrychium — but are heavier. They remain erect during the winter and frequently persist a year or two. Forma obtusilobata is an intermediate form between the fertile and non-fertile fronds. It is found occasionally with the type. DICKSONIA. This genus was named for James Dickson, an English botanist, 1738-1822. 64 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES 4 HAIRY DICKSONIA. Dicksonia pilosiuscula (D. punctilobula). Frond bipinnate ; pinnze lanceolate, tapering to a fine point. The pinnules are cut into ob- long and obtuse, cut-toothed lobes. The stipe is channeled and of a chestnut color, and both stipe and rachis are hairy. This is one of our most beautiful species, and because of its finely cut foliage it may be thought by the novice to resemble the Spinulose Wood Fern, var. zztermedium. It can be distinguished by its long tapering form, — the pinnz, which are from three to four or five inches long at the base, gradually decreasing in length to the tip; by its thin, delicate texture ; the pale yellowish- green color of its fronds, and their dowzy-hatr mess. When found in its favorite haunt, — light, stony soil on somewhat shaded hillsides, — its fronds grow in graceful, slightly drooping curves, and it would scarcely be recognized as the same species when growing in less favored situations, with fronds stiffer and more erect, and bearing a sort of starved aspect in gen- ° eral. It is a common fern, especially in southern New England, growing from one to two and one half feet high, often in large beds. f f Q“ a. HAIRY DICKSONIA. 4¢. Fertile pinna. c. SENSITIVE FERN FERN FAMILY 67 The fronds are sweet-scented when crushed or while drying, and often emit a delicious fra- grance in the field. They are sensitive to early frosts, and frequently bleach nearly white in autumn. Other names for it seem to abound. It is known as the Boulder Fern, Fine-haired Moun- tain Fern, Hay-scented Fern, and Sweet-grass Fern. The fertile and sterile fronds are similar in form. The fruit-dots are small, each on a re- curved toothlet, usually one at the upper mar- gin of each lobe. They mature in July. The indusium is cup-shaped and open at the top. Var. cristata. This is a local form discovered in Massa- chusetts. It grows with the type, and is notice- able for the forking of the apex of the frond which is sometimes crested. The same pecu- liarity frequently occurs in the pinne. CYSTOPTERIS. Bladder Fern. The name is from the Greek £ustzs, a blad- der, and féeris, a fern, alluding to the inflated indusia. This group was formerly classed in the genus ASPIDIUM. 68 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES BULBLET BLADDER FERN. Cystopteris bulbifera. Frond twice pinnate, the pinnz lanceolate- oblong and at right angles to the rachis. The pinnules are somewhat crowded, oblong, obtuse, toothed or pinnatifid. Small bulblets are of- ten borne underneath the pinnz and rachis, which, when coming in contact with the soil, produce new plants. It is from this charac- teristic that the fern receives its common name. The frond is widest at the base, the basal or lowest pinnze being from one to four or five inches long, and gradually shortening to the tip of the fern. This is a very narrow, vine-like (though not twining), graceful species, found in wet, shaded ravines, but more commonly choosing calcareous cliffs near falling water. While not rare it may be so termed in some localities. It grows from one to three feet long, the stipe short and smooth. The sterile fronds are shorter and broader than the fertile ones, but otherwise similar. The fruit-dots are round, and mature in July. The indusium is hood-like, attached by a broad base on the inner side, opening early at the other side, and is somewhat ragged. FRAGILE BLADDER FERN. a. Fertile frond BULBLET BLADDER FERN. 2. Tip of fertile frond FRAGILE BLADDER FERN. Rare forms FERN FAMILY 71 FRAGILE BLADDER FERN. Cystopteris fragilis. Frond bi-tripinnate, the pinnz and pinnules irregularly cut-toothed or pinnatifid and usually decurrent along the winged rachis. The pinnz are rather remote and the pinnules vary con- siderably in their form and cutting. This fern grows from six to twelve or fifteen inches high, and is found on moist, shaded cliffs and in rocky woods, common. It strongly resembles Blunt-lobed Woodsia but may be distinguished by the less triangular form of its prune, by the long, bare stipes, and a certain gracefulness of growth peculiar to it- self. The stipes of young fronds are somewhat hairy-chaffy. Other names for it are the Brittle Bladder Fern and Common Bladder Fern. Its fronds are among the earliest to appear in the spring. By the middle of summer they fre- quently wither and disappear, and fresh fronds often spring up in August. Nearly all of the fronds are fertile. The fruit- dots are numerous, round and large, near the margin of the pinnules, and sometimes, becom- ing quite heavy, give the fronds a somewhat coarse appearance which is wholly lacking be- fore the fruit matures. 72 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES It is when thus heavily weighted with fruit that we find the most close resemblance to Woodsia obtusa. The indusia are pointed at the free end, and in this as well as in the preceding species, wither so early that the fruit-dots appear naked at maturity in June and July. PTERIS. Brake. The name is from the Greek Pferzs, a fern, from pteron, a wing, referring to the pinnate or feather-like fronds. COMMON BRAKE. Preris aquilina. Frond ternate, at the summit of an erect, ‘ brownish stipe from one to four or five feet high. It is triangular in form, and from one to three feet wide, consisting of three primary, stalked divisions, which are also triangular and twice pinnate. The upper pinnules are un- divided ; the lower ones are variable, being more or less cut into oblong, obtuse lobes. The Common Brake being ternate and so large cannot be confused with any other spe- cies. It is very common in woods, pastures, and waste ground. The name “brake” is apt to be applied in PURPLE CLIFF BRAKE. a. Fertile frond COMMON BRAKE. 4. Fertile pinnule FERN FAMILY 75 general to all of our larger species; hence this fern being large receives its true name, while the others suffer. It is also sometimes known as the Eagle Fern. The fronds grow singly from a creeping root- stock which is often twenty feet or more in length. They are leathery in texture, very dull green and of coarse appearance when mature and growing in exposed situations ; they would scarcely be recognized as the same species, ex- cepting by the form, when found in the shade, where the color is fresh and the texture more delicate. New fronds are produced all summer. The fruit is borne in a continuous line along the margins of the pinnules which are reflexed to form an indusium. It matures in August. PELLAA. Cliff Brake. The name is from the Greek fellos, dusky, referring tothe stipe. This group was formerly classed with the genus PTERIs. PURPLE CLIFF BRAKE. Lellea atropurpurea. The fronds are quite irregular in form, some- times simply pinnate, or twice pinnate below, the upper pinnze long, narrow, and entire, the lower often consisting of from one to three 76 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES pairs of pinnules with a large terminal one. The pinnules are occasionally eared. There are chaffy hairs on the midribs and on the wiry, dark purple stipe and rachis. The fronds are clustered, leathery in texture, of a grayish or blue-green color, and they may remain evergreen in southern New England. They are from six inches to one and one half feet long, growing preferably on limestone cliffs and around inaccessible places in general. This fern can be termed rare, at least in northern New England. It is sometimes called the Winter Brake. The fertile fronds are narrower and _ taller than the sterile ones, also fewer in number. The fruit is borne in an apparently continuous row near the margins of- the pinnules, which are incurved or reflexed to form a general indu- sium. The fruit is bright brown when mature in July and August. SLENDER CLIFF BRAKE. Pellea gracilis (P. Stelleri). Frond smooth and pinnate, but with few pin- nz; the lower ones short-stalked and cut into from three to five broad, blunt, crenate or incised pinnules. The stipe is straw-colored or brown- ish, polished, and slightly chaffy at the base. This is a very delicate, slender, and rare little SLENDER CLIFF BRAKE. a. Sterile frond. 4. Fertile fronds CLIMBING FERN, showing fertile and sterile pinnules FERN FAMILY 79 fern from three to six inches high, and is found at its best on shaded, moist, calcareous rocks and cliffs. The fertile fronds are more plentiful than the sterile ones, and much more slender. They are twice pinnate, with narrow divisions. The fruit is at first dot-like on the margin of the pinnules, becoming confluent laterally, forming a margi- nal line with the edge of the pinnules reflexed to form an indusium. It matures in July and August. LYGODIUM. Climbing Fern. The name is from the Greek /ugodcs, flexible, referring to the climbing stems. CLIMBING FERN. Lygodium palmatum. This species is well named as the fronds are slender and twining, from one to three feet long, bearing petioled and round-heart-shaped, pal- mately lobed pinnules in alternate pairs. The stipe and rachis are slender, smooth, and wiry. The texture is thinly herbaceous, and the fern with its curious leaflets and twining nature bears little resemblance to the family. It is the only fern with climbing stem found in the United States. 80 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES Its habitat is low, moist thickets and open woods, only in southern New England. The Climbing Fern has been so much sought for decorative purposes that the species has become extinct or nearly so in many sections where it was formerly found. We understand that a law for its protection was passed years ago in Con- necticut. It is sometimes known as the “ Hart- ford” Fern. The fertile pinnules form a terminal panicle, suddenly contracted, and several times forked. These pinnules have much the same form as the larger, sterile ones. The fruit-dots are soli- tary or in pairs, covered by large, imbricated, scale-like indusia which are fixed by a broad base to short oblique veinlets, and open verti- cally. The fruit matures in September. The sterile portion is evergreen. ADIANTUM. Maidenhair. The name is from the Greek a, without, and diainein, to wet, referring to the smooth foliage which sheds water so readily. MAIDENHAIR. Adiantum pedatum. Frond forked at the summit of the slender, upright, dark purplish, shining stipe, which is MAIDENHAIR MAIDENHAIR FERN FAMILY 83 from eight to fourteen inches in height. Each recurved branch bears on the upper side at regular intervals, from six to ten slender, pin- nate, upright divisions, giving the frond a wide crescent or somewhat circular form. The cen- tral pinnz are from five to nine inches long, the outer ones gradually decreasing in size. The pinnules are short-stalked, alternate, and one-sided ; that is, the veins all proceed from the extreme lower edge of each pinnule, the upper edge being slightly cleft. The stipes when quite young are hairy, but soon become smooth. This is a species of peculiar form and beauty, and one of the few ferns which is familiarly recognized by its proper name. It is much used for decorative purposes, and the time may not be far distant when it will become rare in many sections. Maidenhair grows in rich, rocky woods, and although somewhat retiring in habit, is found _abundantly in not a few localities. It produces fronds all summer, most of which are fertile. The fruit-dots are oblong, and found on the under side of the summit of the lobes, —the margin of which is reflexed to form an indusium. They mature in July and August. This and the Bulblet Bladder Fern were the first of our ferns to be taken to England. 84 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES WOODSIA. This genus was named for Joseph Woods, an English botanist. RUSTY WOODSIA. Woodsia Ilvensts. Frond pinnate, the pinnz rather crowded, and cut into oblong, obtuse, obscurely toothed segments. It grows from three to six inches high, with a jointed stipe at the base, an inch or more from the root. It is at this joint that the frond separates when it withers. The fern is somewhat heavy in texture, smoothish and green above, — woolly or chaffy beneath, the hairs gray at first, but becoming rusty brown in color, whence its common name. Another name it bears is Hairy Woodsia. The stipe and rachis are channeled. The former is rich brown in color, often shading into the rachis. Both are hairy-chaffy. Rusty Woodsia is not considered by some a common species, and our experience harmonizes with this view. Perhaps it can be termed fre- quent. It grows in tufts, in exposed situations, on rocks preferably, or in dry woods, in places too dry for almost any other species to exist. When found in moist places, as it occasionally may be, NORTHERN WOODSIA. a. Small fronds SMOOTH WOODSIA. 4. Small fronds RUSTY WOODSIA. c. Fertile frond. d@. Sterile frond FERN FAMILY 87 the fronds seem fresher and more delicate, and the pinne are more fully developed, scarcely appearing like the same species. The fruit-dots are large, near the margin, and mature in June, often becoming confluent. The indusium is minute, and fastened underneath the fruit-dot. Its margin is divided into hair- like segments, which are inflexed over the fruit. It is inconspicuous and withers early. SMOOTH WOODSIA. Woodsia glabella. Frond from two to five inches high, pinnate, the pinnz roundish-ovate, with few, slightly toothed lobes, — often not more than three. The stipe is jointed near the base. This is a very delicate, rare little fern grow- ing in tufts on moist, mossy rocks in the moun- tains of northern New England. It closely resembles another one of the same genus, IV. hyperborea. But in this, the stipe is dark only at the ertreme base, where it also may be slightly chaffy; the rachis is green, and the frond is szzooth and delicate in texture. The fruit-dots are large and few, near the margin of the lobes; they mature in July. The indusium is minute and membranous, with seg- ments inflexed over the fruit-dots. 88 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES NORTHERN WOODSIA. Woodsia hyperborea (W. alpina). Frond from two to six inches high, pinnate ; pinne triangular-ovate, obtuse, the lower ones deeply cut into few, broad, and nearly entire lobes. In this, as in the preceding two species, the stipe is jointed. This is another small and rare species of this genus, growing in tufts on moist cliffs and rocks in the mountains of Vermont and Maine. Other names for it are Alpine Woodsia and Flower- cup Fern. It bears such a striking resemblance to Smooth Woodsia that it may be very diffi- cult for the novice to distinguish between them. In Northern Woodsia, perhaps the most no- ticeable point of difference is the color of the stipe and rachis, which commences with a rich, dark brown at the base of the stipe, gradually shading toa light color at the upper end of the rachis. Both the stipe and rachis are slightly chaffy-hairy. The under surface of the frond is also slightly hairy. The fruit-dots are large and somewhat scat- tered; they mature in July. The indusium is the same as in W. /lvenszs. a. BLUNT-LOBED WOODSIA. 4. Fertile pinna c. EBONY SPLEENWORT. Tip of frond. d. Var. Hortone FERN FAMILY gl BLUNT-LOBED WOODSIA. Woodsta obtusa. Frond nearly twice pinnate, the pinnee rather remote when mature, and cut into oblong, ob- tuse, crenately-toothed segments. The seg- ments of the lower pinnz near the rachis are pinnatifid with toothed lobes. The fronds are broadly lanceolate in form, slightly narrowed at the base, and minutely hairy, with stipe and rachis slightly chaffy. This is the largest fern of this genus, being from six to twelve inches high. It grows on shaded, rocky banks and cliffs, and while not exactly rare here in New England, it is by no means a common species. Another name for it is Obtuse Woodsia. It is found at its best in early summer. When growing in the sun the fronds thicken and become yellow. Blunt-lobed Woodsia is sometimes confused with the Fragile Bladder Fern, but may be de- termined by the short stipe, the triangular form of the pinne, and the d/uz/uess of the pinnz and their divisions, —also by its minute azriness. The fertile and sterile fronds are similar in form, those fertile being in the middle of the crown or tuft. The fruit-dots are round, large, on or below the minutely toothed lobes, and become confluent. They mature in July. The 92 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES indusium is conspicuous and at first incloses the fruit, but finally splits into ragged lobes wider than in the other species. ASPLENIUM. Spleenwort. The name is from the Greek a, without, and splen, spleen, referring to the supposed action on the spleen. A nomenclature differing from that given at the head of the text, places the species ilzx- femina and thelypteroides under the genus ATHYRIUM. The indusia in this genus are fastened by one edge to the inner side of the fertile vein when in a single row, and on both sides when in double rows. Several species of this group are small, ever- green, and choose rocky locations. EBONY SPLEENWORT. Asplenium ebeneum (A. platyneuron). Frond pinnate, the pinnee sessile, finely ser- rate, usually alternate, oblong, dilated at the base, auricled on the upper side, and sometimes, in the fertile frond, on the lower side also. The pinnee of the sterile fronds are crowded, and often overlap each other, especially in the middle of the fronds. The stipe and rachis are a rich brown color, wiry and shining. FERN FAMILY 93 This is an evergreen fern of narrow form, being from one to two inches wide, and from six to eighteen inches high. It grows in rocky, open woods, and can scarcely be termed com- mon throughout New England, although it is abundant in some localities. It prefers lime- stone soil. The fertile fronds are much the taller, and grow quite erect, while the sterile ones lie flat on the ground. The fruit-dots are in oblique lines each side of the midvein, nearer the latter than the margin, and often become confluent. They ma- turein July, and remain on the frond during the winter. The indusium is silvery until maturity, opening towards the midrib. Var. cncisum (serratum). This is a form with deeply incised pinnae, and is found occasionally growing with the type. Var. Hortone. This fern is another more distinct form dis- covered by Mrs. Horton in Brattleboro, Ver- mont, in 1900. The pinnz in this are deeply cut into oblique lobes which are coarsely ser- rate. The dark, glossy stipe and rachis of this fern, and its mode of growth, are similar to those of the type. The fronds are plume-like 94 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES in appearance and lighter green than in the species. This fern was again found at Pittsford, Ver- mont, in 1903. PINNATIFID SPLEENWORT. Asplenium pinnatifidum. Frond from two to six inches long, pinnatifid, or sometimes pinnate below, tapering to a long, slender point above, the few lobes at the base roundish-ovate. It was formerly thought to be a variety of the Walking Fern, the latter then being given asan Asplenium. It grows in tufts on rocks and cliffs, and the fronds are evergreen. The stipe is dark and polished, the rachis green. Pinnatifid Spleenwort has only recently been accorded a place among New England ferns through its discovery in Connecticut. The fruit-dots are large, irregular, often double, and sometimes curved ; they mature in July. The indusium is straight or curved. MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT. Asplenium Trichomanes. Frond pinnate, with from fifteen to thirty pairs of unequal-sided, sometimes finely crenate FERN FAMILY 95 pinnz, which are nearly opposite, and attached to the rachis by a small point. The pinnz be- come nearly equal-sided and roundish as the base of the frond is reached. The fronds are often one half inch or more wide and from three to eight inches long. They grow in tufts on moist, shady rocks, preferring limestone. But the fern may be found in dry situations. It will establish itself in clefts and niches of slate cliffs, where there is hardly an apparent foothold for it to grow. The fronds remain green through the winter, until the new growth in the spring, when the pinnz fall from the rachides. The stipe and rachis are thread- like, dark purple-brown, and polished. Another name by which this fern is known is Dwarf Spleenwort. We do not find it to bea common species, although it cannot be termed rare. The fruit-dots are large, linear-oblong at first, but become nearly round, with from three to six on each side of the midrib. They mature in July, and remain on the frond during the winter. The indusium is delicate. GREEN SPLEENWORT. Asplenium viride. Frond from two to ten inches long, pale green, pinnate. The pinnz are roundish-ovate, 96 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES short-stalked and crenately toothed, from ten to twenty each side of the rachis. This fern was discovered by Pringle on Mt. Mansfield, Vermont, and so far as we can learn, it is still confined to the mountains of Ver- mont. Green Spleenwort usually is found in almost inaccessible places on shaded cliffs. The fronds grow in tufts and are evergreen. It resembles Maidenhair Spleenwort, but one point alone serves for identification. In this the vachis is green, passing into a brown- ish stipe at the base, while in Maidenhair Spleenwort the stipe and rachis are dark and glossy. The fruit-dots are large and oblong; they mature in July. The indusium is curved or straight. MOUNTAIN SPLEENW ORT. Asplenium montanum. Frond from two to five or six inches long, broad at the base, pinnate. The lower pin- nz are cleft into several cut-toothed lobes, the upper gradually becoming simpler. The stipe is brown at the base, flat and green above. The fronds are somewhat leathery in texture, bluish-green in color, and evergreen. a. GREEN SPLEENWORT. 6. WALL RUE SPLEENWORT c. MAIDENHAIR SPLEENWORT d. MOUNTAIN SPLEENWORT e. PINNATIFID SPLEENWORT. Small fronds FERN FAMILY 99 Mountain Spleenwort is a real cliff fern, pre- ferring moist, shaded crevices and niches on rocks in perilous situations. It is found only rarely in southern New England. Most of the fronds are fertile. The fruit-dots are linear, short, and few, and at length become confluent, concealing the thin and narrow in- dusia at maturity in July. WALL RUE SPLEENW ORT. Asplenium Ruta-muraria. Frond twice or thrice pinnate at the base, simply pinnate above, the pinna long-stalked, alternate; the divisions few, small, distant, stalked, wedged-shaped at the base, obtuse and sharply toothed at the apex. The fronds are triangular-ovate in form, some- what leathery in texture, and are evergreen. The veins are forking. This fern bears some resemblance to Moun- tain Spleenwort, but may be distinguished by its triangular form, and by the peculiar wedge- shaped form of its stalked divisions. Wall Rue Spleenwort is found in dry, rocky situations, preferring limestone cliffs. It grows in clusters, with long, flat, and smooth stipes, — the entire length of the fern being from two to six inches. It is not exactly rare, but occurs only occasionally. 100 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES The fruit-dots are few, large, and soon be- come confluent, nearly covering the entire pin- nule when mature in July. The indusium is membranous and delicate. SCOTT'S SPLEENWORT. Asplenium ebenoites. Frond pinnatifid, or often pinnate below, the divisions lanceolate from a broad base, very irregular both in form and length, the lower ones usually a trifle shorter. The fronds are from four to nine inches long and are broadly lanceolate in outline, tapering to a long, slender point. The stipes are dark and glossy, sometimes slightly shading into the rachis, especially on the under side. Scott’s Spleenwort is now known to be a hybrid between Ebony Spleenwort, A. ebeneum and the Walking Fern, Camptosorus rhizophy!- /us. It bears no marked resemblance to either fern, so it is not difficult to determine. It is usually found growing with these two ferns, on cliffs, preferring limestone. It is ex- ceedingly rare here in New England. The fruit-dots are arranged in oblique lines, slightly curved, several on each lobe. The indusium is narrow, and reflexed when mature in August. NARROW-LEAVED SPLEENWORT a. Portion showing pinnz of sterile frond. 4. Tip of fertile frond SILVERY SPLEENWORT. Fertile pinna FERN FAMILY 103 NARROW-LEAVED SPLEENWORT. Asplenium angustifolium. Frond simply pinnate ; pinnee from three to four inches long, stalked, alternate, entire or minutely toothed, tapering to a point. This fern is found in rich, moist woods only occasionally. It is sometimes known as Swamp Spleenwort. The fronds are unusually delicate, pale green and smooth, growing from one to two feet high, in tufts. The fertile fronds are few, in the middle of the cluster, taller and with longer stipes than the sterile, and with narrower, shorter pinnee. The fruit-dots are linear, in rows of from twenty to forty, diverging from the midvein, and parallel with the veins. They at leneth be- come confluent and conceal the slightly convex indusia ; time of maturity, September. SILVERY SPLEENWORT. Asplenium thelupteroides (A. acrostichoides). Frond pinnate; pinnz from three to five inches long, deeply cut into blunt, obscurely toothed segments. The stipe is slightly chaffy. The fronds are grouped together, although not growing exactly in crowns. They are very thin and delicate in texture for such large ferns. We 104 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES discovered the surface to be velvety-hairy long before finding an author who mentioned it as a distinguishing characteristic. The fronds taper both ways from the middle, —the only fern of this group with such form, although some varieties of the Lady Fern are a little narrower at the base than in the middle of the frond. This fern grows from one and one half to three feet high, and is found in rich, moist woods, or along the shady banks of streams. It is wanting in many localities, and yet, strictly speaking, it is not rare. Silvery Spleenwort might often be mistaken for the New York Fern, so close is the resem- blance in form. Usually it is larger than the latter, and the segments or lobes are wider. If examined closely for the fixe hairs and the mz- nutely toothed lobes it can readily be identified. Certainly no confusion can arise when it is found in fruit. This is beautifully arranged in long, opposite rows, from three to six in num- ber, each side of the midvein, slightly curved outward, and set obliquely to it. The fern receives its common name from the shining, silvery indusia which cover the fruit- dots. These are sometimes double and persist for along time. The fruit can be found in good condition from July to September. a. Fertile pinna LADY FERN. FERN FAMILY 107 LADY FERN. Asplenium filix-femina, Frond twice pinnate, broadly lanceolate ; pinnz lanceolate, from two to six inches long ; pinnules oblong, more or less incised or serrate, and united to the secondary rachis by a narrow wing. It grows in moist woods or by the roadside, —in fact it is found almost everywhere. Many native varieties of this fern occur, and a large number have been generated by sowing varie- ties of spores together. The fronds are from one to three feet long, with brownish stipes. They are quite delicate in the early part of the season, but when heavily loaded with fruit become coarse in appearance. The fertile and sterile fronds are similar in outline. The fruit-dots are short and variously curved, becoming at length confluent and giving the frond a dark hue. They mature in July and August. The indusium is delicate, straight, or sometimes curved in horse-shoe form. OPHIOGLOSSACE/# ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY BOTRYCHIUM. Grape Fern. Moonwort. THE name is derived from the Greek, dotrus, a bunch of grapes, alluding to the clustered sporangia. The Grape Ferns usually produce but ove frond each season. They were formerly classed in the Fern Family, but are now separated on account of the different nature of the fruit. MOONWORT. Botrychium Lunaria. The sterile portion is nearly sessile, borne near the middle of the common stalk, which is from two to twelve inches high. It 1s one or two inches long, narrow in form, very fleshy, and pinnately parted into from two to eight pairs of fan-shaped, very obtuse, crenate, incised, or sometimes nearly entire lobes. These are dis- tant, or may overlap each other. The veins are much forked. Moonwort grows mostly in dry fields and pastures and is very rare. The fertile portion is from two to three pin- nate, and is mature in June or July. 112 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES TERNATE GRAPE FERN. Botrychium ternatum. There is no species over which there has arisen so much discussion as this. Whether it shall be considered as including a large number of varieties, or whether it has an unvarying stand- ard, and some of the so-called vavzeties are dis- tinct speczes, is an open question. The plants are from four to fifteen inches high and more or less fleshy. The sterile portion is long-stalked from near the base of the short common stem. It is broadly triangular, ternate, and variously decompound, with stalked divisions. The ultimate segments vary much in form. The fertile portion is long-stalked, and from two to three pinnate, with double rows of naked sporangia. Adhering to Gray, we give the following varieties, which frequently pass into each other. COMMON GRAPE FERN. Botrychium ternatum obliquum (B. obliguum). Plant from four to twelve inches high but more commonly small. The sterile portion is long-stalked from near the base of the com- mon stem, fleshy, slightly hairy, broadly trian- gular in form, and ternate; the three primary a. COMMON GRAPE FERN with fertile portion 4. DISSECTED GRAPE FERN with fertile portion BOTRYCHIUM TERNATUM sub-var. intermedium with fertile portion ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY 115 divisions stalked and pinnately decompound, — the ultimate segments obliquely lanceolate and minutely toothed. It grows in shady pastures and open woods, and is rather common, although it and other small forms of this genus have a way of eluding one’s search for them. The Common Grape Fern can be found read- ily after a very light snow has fallen in the fall, as the bronzed fronds, which remain evergreen, stand erect against the light background. Our first knowledge of its being evergreen was when a frond was thus discovered at Christmas time. The sterile portion does not usually appear until July. When young this is folded ina pecu- liar manner, but it spreads more with age, some- times not until after fruiting. The fertile portion is taller and still later than the sterile, stands erect, and is often thrice pin- nate, with double rows of distinct, naked spo- rangia. We have seen plants bearing three separate stalks, with compound fruit clusters on each, but such form is not common. It matures in September and October. DISSECTED GRAPE FERN. Botrychium ternatum dissectum (B. dissectum). Plant somewhat fleshy and from three to six inches high. The sterile portion is triangular 116 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES in form and ternate, the three primary divisions stalked and pinnately decompound, being cut into many narrow lobes. It is frequently found growing with the Common Grape Fern in shady places, al- though preferring more open situations, and it is more common near the coast. The sterile frond appears in July and is said to be ever- green. Both sterile and fertile portions are long- stalked, the fertile the longer. At the summit of the taller stalk is a branching fruit-cluster similar to that of the Common Grape Fern, but less compound. It matures in September and October. Botrychium ternatum, sub-var. intermedium (Bo- trychium obliquum intermedium). The sterile portion is very broadly trian- gular and similar to var. od/iguum, but often larger and more fleshy. The ultimate seg- ments are. divided somewhat more, are shorter and less pointed, with minutely toothed mar- gins, It is found frequently, growing in old pastures and thickets. The fertile portion is also similar to that of obliquum, being quite compound. BOTRYCHIUM TERNATUM RUTAFOLIUM. a. Fertile portion. 6. Sterile portion c. LITTLE GRAPE FERN with fertile portion d. MATRICARY GRAPE FERN with fertile portion ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY 119 Botrychium ternatum rutefolium (Botrychium matri- caria). The sterilé portion is small, but bears much re- semblance to var. ob/iquum. The ultimate seg- ments are few, ovate and somewhat heart-shaped. This is rarely found ; it grows in old fields. The fertile portion is similar to that of the preceding varieties. LITTLE GRAPE FERN. Botrychium simplex. Plant from two to five inches high, the ster- ile portion short-stalked from near the middle of the common stem. The sterile portion is simple, or pinnately parted into three or more roundish lobes. It is fleshy in texture, and rather thick. This is a rare little fern, growing in moist, hilly pastures and open woods. The fertile portion is taller than the sterile, and is once or twice pinnate, with double rows of sessile, distinct, naked sporangia which ma- ture in May or June. MATRICARY GRAPE FERN. Botrychium matricariefolium. This fern is also termed B. xeglectum. The sterile portion is sessile or nearly so, placed above the middle of the common stalk. 120 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES It is from one to two inches in length, usually fleshy, ovate or somewhat triangular in form, deeply cut into obtuse divisions which vary much in form ; sometimes rounded and entire, incised, or deeply cut into narrow, toothed segments. The entire plant is from three to ten or twelve inches high. It grows in rich, moist, grassy woods, and swamps, and is found only occasionally. It is sometimes known as Meriden Moonwort. The fertile portion is two or three pinnate, often much branched, bearing rows of sessile, distinct sporangia which mature in June and July. B. tenebrosum is a very small form which is rather rare, or possibly overlooked, being only from one to two inches high. It is found in moist, mossy places. The fertile portion is simpler than that of the type. LANCE-LEAVED GRAPE FERN. Botrychium lanceolatum. The sterile portion is sessile near the sum- mit of the common stalk, which is from three to nine inches high. It is in three primary divisions, or broadly triangular in form. The divisions are deeply cut into acute, lanceolate, oblique lobes, which are incised or toothed. a. RATTLESNAKE FERN, with fertile portion 4. ADDER’S-TONGUE, with fertile portion ADDER’S-TONGUE FAMILY 123 This fern grows in moist hollows in meadows or woods, and sometimes in swamps. It is rare in northern New England and oc- curs only occasionally in the southern part. The fertile portion is short-stalked, from two to three pinnate, and matures in June or July. RATTLESNAKE FERN. Botrychium Virginianum. This fern is the largest and most common one of this genus. The-sterile portion is broadly triangular and ternate, the three primary divi- sions short-stalked, once or twice pinnate, then pinnatifid ; the pinnules narrow, oblong and cut- toothed toward the apex. It is pale green and thinly herbaceous, wilting very quickly when picked. Another name for it is Virginia Grape Fern. It grows in rich woods, preferring shade. The stem or scape is from eight inches to one and one half feet high, bearing the sessile, sterile portion about half-way up, with the smaller com- pound fruit-cluster at the summit. The fruit matures rapidly, in June or July, more often in June. It withers by midsummer. Forma gracilis is a reduced form of the Rat- tlesnake Fern, considered by some to be an immature state of that fern. 124 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES OPHIOGLOSSUM. Adder’s-Tongue. The name is from the Greek, op/zs, a serpent, and glossa, tongue. ADDER’S-TONGUE. Ophiogtossum vulgatum. This is the only fern of this genus found in New England. It occasionally bears two fronds the same season. The scape is from two to twelve inches high. The sterile portion is entire, rather fleshy, ovate in form, and from one to three inches long, near the middle of the stem. The veins form a fine net-work. It grows in bogs and pastures and sometimes in moist fields. There seems to be no favorite haunt for the plant clearly settled in the minds of our best botanists. One says dry places, an- other wet. We incline to the latter view, or at least think it prefers moist land. It is found only occasionally. The fertile portion, which is at the summit of the scape, consists of two rows of straw-colored, united sporangia on the edges of the simple spike. This is from one half to one inch or more in length; the fruit becomes mature in June and July. LYCOPODIACE CLUB-MOSS FAMILY FESTOON GROUND PINE with fertile portion CLUB-MOSS FAMILY LYCOPODIUM. Club-Moss. THE name is from the Greek, /ucos, wolf, and pous, foot. All the plants of this genus are evergreen. Several of the trailing species are extensively used for holiday decorations. The yellow pow- der — minute spores — from the fertile spikes of some species is inflammable. It is sometimes called vegetable brimstone, and is used in the manufacture of fireworks. It is also valuable in medicine. STIFF CLUB-MOSS. Lycopodium annotinum. Stems prostrate and creeping, with many up- right branches from five to eight inches high, forked in pairs. The leaves are equal, spreading, in five ranks, minutely serrulate, pointed and rigid. It grows in cold woods, and is common in northern New England, but is found only oc- casionally in the southern portion. It is some- times known as Interrupted Club-Moss. The fertile branches are terminated by a 128 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES single, sessile, scaly spike about an inch in length, which matures in July. FESTOON GROUND PINE. Lycopodium complanatum. Stem trailing, sometimes underground. Branches erect and fan-like, being numerously forked above. The branchlets are crowded and flattened. The leaves are small, four-ranked, imbricated-appressed, — the side rows with tips somewhat spreading, the intermediate rows wholly appressed and smaller. It grows in woods and thickets and is found common. The fertile peduncle is slender, bearing from two to four cylindrical, scaly spikes not more than an inch in length. These mature in July. TREE CLUB-MOSS. Lycopodium obscurum dendroideum. Stems erect, from six to nine inches high, scattered, and from a rootstock creeping under- ground. Branches many, spreading, and fan- like. Leaves linear-lanceolate, from four to six ranked, acute and entire. This plant grows in moist woods and is com- mon. It is distinguished by its tree-like form, whence its name. Another title it sometimes bears is Ground Pine. a. TREE CLUB-MOSS with fertile portion 6. STIFF CLUB-MOSS a. SWAMP EVERGREEN 4. FIR CLUB-MOSS CLUB-MOSS FAMILY 131 The fertile spikes are sessile, scaly, one inch long, solitary, and several on each plant. They mature in July. SWAMP EVERGREEN. Lycopodium lucidulum. Stems ascending, from five to ten inches long, and two or three times forked, usually below the middle. The leaves are minutely toothed, pointed, spreading or often deflexed, and in eight rows. They are arranged in alternate series of longer and shorter lengths, and are somewhat larger than is common to this genus. It is sometimes called Shining Club-Moss, pre- sumably because of its glossy, dark green leaves. Swamp Evergreen grows in cold, damp woods, and although it can be found usually in its favor- ite haunt, it is not so common as some others of this group. The spore-cases are borne in the axils of the leaves near the summit of the stem. They can be found in good condition from August until October, and frequently persist a year or two. FIR CLUB-MOSS. Lycopodium Selago. Stems erect, forked by pairs, forming a level- topped cluster from three to six inches high. 132 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES The leaves are about eight-ranked, rigid, dark green, glossy, entire or sometimes slightly toothed, ascending, pointed and somewhat crowded. Fir Club-Moss is usually found only in high altitudes, and can be termed rare. It somewhat resembles Swamp Evergreen ; but in Fir Club-Moss, the forking of the stems near the top, and the /evel-topped clusters, to- gether with its smaller size, may aid in deter- mining the species. Its leaves also are more nearly uniform in size. The leaves of this and L. luctdulum often bear gemmz, or buds, by which the plants are propagated. The spore-cases are borne in the axils of the ordinary leaves; they mature from August to October. COMMON CLUB-MOSS. Lycopodium clavatum. ' Stems creeping on the surface of the ground ; branches similar, ascending, short, and crowded with linear-awl-shaped, incurved or spreading light green leaves, which are tipped with a fine bristle. This species grows in dry, shaded pastures and woods, and is very common. It is some- times called Running Pine. COMMON CLUB-MOSS with fertile portion CLUB-MOSS FAMILY 135 The fertile branches are terminated by a slender, minutely leafy peduncle from four to six inches long, bearing two or three linear parallel, erect, cylindrical, scaly spikes. These mature in July. EQUISETACEAt HORSETAIL FAMILY a. Sterile stem. & Fertile stem WOOD HORSETAIL. c. SCOURING-RUSH. Tip of fertile stem HORSETAIL FAMILY EQUISETUM. Horsetail. THE name is from the Latin, egzzs, horse, and sefa, bristle. These are Rush-like plants with grooved stems, usually hollow, jointed, and bearing, in- stead of leaves at the joints, a sheath, which is divided into teeth corresponding to the number of ridges in the stem. The spore-cases. adhere to the under side of the shield-shaped scales of the spike. WOOD HORSETAIL. Lequisetum sylvaticum. The sterile stems are usually twelve-furrowed, with compound, rough, deflexed branches. The fertile stems appear first, with four or five whorls of short branches at the base of the sheaths, which are loose, about one or two inches apart and cleft into several reddish teeth. The spike at the summit is oval-cylindric in form and one inch long. It withers soon after maturity in May, leaving the stems to produce whorls of herbaceous branches similar to the sterile. The sterile stems are taller and more 140 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES slender than the fertile stems, with the whorls more numerous. It grows in moist, shady places, and is com- mon in northern New England. SCOURING-RUSH. Lequisetum hyemale. Stems all simple, hollow, grooved, and from one to three feet high. Sheaths short, the teeth blackish and soon disappearing. This species is common in northern New England, growing in wet places and. along the banks of streams. It was formerly used for polishing wood and metal, its roughness being due to the silex in its composition. The stems are evergreen. The fertile spike at the summit is ovoid and matures in June and July. FIELD HORSETAIL. Lequisetum arvense. The fertile stems appear first. They are from four to ten inches high, a light, delicate brown in color, soft, with large, distant, coarsely toothed, inflated sheaths; they terminate in a spike one inch long. These stems soon wither and are followed by the taller, herbaceous, green, sterile stems which produce whorls of upright branches. These are sometimes simple, but = FIELD HORSETAIL. a. Sterile stem. 4. Fertile stem c. Middle of stem. d. Tip of fertile stem PIPES. HORSETAIL FAMILY 143 often produce at each joint a whorl of ascend- ing, four-angled branches, few in number. Field Horsetail is found along railways, also in moist, gravelly or sandy soil, and is fre- quently a companion of the Sensitive Fern, wrongly called the “Polypod.” Various other names for it are in use, such as Meadow Pine, Foxtail, Jointed Rush, and Colt’s Tail. It is poisonous to horses, producing a fatal malady if its use is long continued. The fruit matures in April and May. PIPES. Lequisetum limosum (LE. fluviatile). The stems are all similar, slightly furrowed, and usually produce after fruiting from two to six whorls of slender, ascending branches near the middle. These are very irregular in length. The sheaths are close and finely toothed. The plant grows from two to three feet high, in shallow water, and is sometimes called Swamp Horsetail. The fertile spikes are small, oblong-ovoid ; they mature in July. SEDGE-LIKE HORSETAIL. Lequisetum scirpoides. The stems are numerous, all being simple, slender, flexuous, thread-like and curving. They 144 FERNS AND THEIR ALLIES have no central air-cavity, are mostly six-grooved, and from three to six inches high, growing in tufts. This species does not fruit freely, but can be identified readily by the sheaths, which are only three in number, short, somewhat loose and persistent. It is not acommon plant, being found in rich, moist woods only occasionally in northern New England, and rarely in the southern part. The stems are evergreen, dark blue-green in color. The fertile spikes are small and ovoid in form; they mature in April and May, earlier than is commonly supposed. KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS I. FERTILE AND STERILE FRONDS SIMILAR. SPORANGIA ON THE UNDER SIDE OF THE FRONDS, VARIOUSLY CLUS- TERED IN DOTS, LINES, OR ALONG THE MARGIN. With indusium. t Sporangia szarg7na/, or near the margin. Indusium formed of the reflexed margin of the lobes or pinnules, and opening inwardly. Fruit-dots oblong, at the end of the veins, on the lobes formed by the cleft wpper margin of the pinnule. Fronds wide crescent-shaped, delicate. Stipe and rachis dark, wiry and shining. Adiantum, p. 8o. Sporangia in a continuous, slender line on the margin. Fronds large, triangular in outline, ternate. Stipe brownish, heavy. PUCPES, Do $2. Fruit-dots on the upper side of the veins, distinct at first, but becoming confluent form an apparently continuous #a7- ginal line. Fertile fronds with narrower divisions than the sterile. Stipe and rachis in one species dark and glossy. Fronds smooth, rock-loving. Pell@a, p. 75. tt Fruit-dots od/ong or “ineav. Indusium attached by one side, in single or double rows. When the rows are double the indusia open face to face. Fruit-dots on one side or rarely on both sides of od/igue veinlets. Fronds variously divided. Several species are small, evergreen, and rock-loving. Asplenium, p. 92. 1448 KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS Fruit-dots irregularly scattered on the netted veins; those nearest the midrib s7/g7Ze, the outer ones often 7 pairs which are sometimes jozzed at the exds, thus forming crooked lines. Fronds entire, tapering to a long, slender point. Camptosorus, p. 4. ttt Fruit-dots round or roundish, borne on the back or rarely at the end of the veins. Indusium of various forms. Indusium e7rcular or round-kidney-shaped, and fixed either centrally or by the sinus, opening all around the margin. Fronds variously divided, and in several species evergreen. Aspidium, p. 11. Indusium inflated or hood-shaped, delicate, and attached by a broad base partly under the fruit-dot on the inner side. It is early reflexed and withered. Fronds in one species very long and narrow, producing bulblets on the under side of rachis. Cystopteris, p. 67. Indusium star-shaped, fixed under the fruit-dots and either open, or early cleft into ragged lobes or slender inflexed fila- ments. It is inconspicuous in most species. Fronds small, rock-loving. : Woodsia, p. 84. Indusium czp-shapfed, membranous, open at the top, and attached by its outer edge to a reflexed toothlet which forms one side of it. Fronds large, delicate, tapering and finely divided. Dicksonia, p. 63. Without indusium. ¢ Fruit-dots round. Fruit-dots /arge, in a row each side of the midvein, mid- way between it and the margin. Fronds small, evergreen. Polypodium, p. 3. KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS 149 Fruit-dots smad/, near the margin. Fronds delicate, trian- gular in outline; in one species, ternate. Phegopteris, p. 7. 2. FERTILE FRONDS DIFFERING IN FORM FROM THE STER- ILE, OR SOMETIMES ONLY PARTLY FERTILE. With indusium. Fruit-dots oblong or linear, in chain-like double rows far- allel with the midribs. Indusium fixed by its outer margin and opening on the inner side. Vez#s more or less netted. In ove species the fertile frond is unlike the sterile. Woodwardia, p. 43. Sporangia ovate, in double rows on panicled, contracted pinnules at the samt of the frond. Indusia thin, imbri- cated, scale-like, and fixed to short, oblique veinlets. Sterile pinnules evergreen, palmate, in alternate pairs on a twining, wire-like stem. Lygodium, p. 79. Without indusium. Sporangia panicled. The fertile fronds vary in the differ- ent species. In one, the extire frond is fertile: in others, the middle portion of the frond, or the ¢/# is fertile. The fertile pinne or fronds are very much contracted, bearing the green sporangia on the margins of the minute divisions. Fronds large and clustered. Osmunda, p. 48. 3: ENTIRE FRONDS FERTILE AND WHOLLY UNLIKE THE STERILE ONES. With indusium. Sporangia inclosed in berry-like divisions of the fertile fronds which are twice pinnate, much contracted, and very different from the sterile ones. Indusium very delicate and obscure. Sterile fronds sometimes very large. Onoclea, p. 57. 150 KEY TO THE GENERA OF FERNS Without indusium. Sporangia dst/nct, borne in pinnate or compound spikes or panicles. Sterile portion so/ztary, variously divided, often ternate and fleshy. Veins free. Botrychium, p. v1. Sporangia leathery, z7¢ed in two rows on the edges of a simple spike. Sterile portion solztary, entcre ; veins netted. Ophioglossum, p. 124. GLOSSARY GLOSSARY Apex (Plural, Apices). The tip or pointed end of a leaf or frond. Appressed. Pressed flat or closely against. Auricle. An ear-shaped lobe at the base. Axil. The angle between a leaf or branch and the stem. Bi-. A Latin prefix, two or twice. Thus a leaf is bipinnate when the leaflets of a pinnate frond are again pinnate. Bulblet. A small bulb borne on the stem and capable of developing a new plant. Compound. Composed of several similar parts united into one whole. Confluent. Running into one another. Crenate. The margin notched with rounded teeth. Decompound. More than once compound. Decurrent. The basal lobe of a leaf growing to the stem below the point of insertion. Deflexed. Bent abruptly downward. Halberd-shaped. The same as Hastate. Hastate. Hollowed out at the base and sides like an arrow- head, with lobes spreading. Imbricate. Placed one over another; overlapping. Incised. The margin cut sharply, irregularly, and more or less deeply. Indusium (Plural, Indusia). The covering of the fruit-dot in ferns. Lanceolate. Lance-shaped, broadest near the base and taper- ing to a point. Midrib. The main rib or vein of a segment, pinnule, pinna, or frond. Midvein. The same as Midrib. 154 GLOSSARY Oblong. From two to four times as long as it is broad, and with sides nearly parallel. Obtuse. Blunt or rounded at the end. Ovate. Egg-shaped. Palmate. Having lobes radiating like the fingers of the hand. Panicle. An irregularly branching cluster of stems bearing fruit. Peduncle. That part of the stem on which the fruit is sup- ported. Persistent. Remaining for a long time. Petiole. The footstalk of a leaf. Pinna (Plural, Pinnz). One of the divisions extending to the midvein of a pinnate frond. Pinnate. Having the frond cut into lobes extending fully to the midvein or rachis. Pinnatifid. Having the frond cut into lobes extending half- way or more to the midvein. Pinnule. A secondary pinna; in a bipinnate frond, the smaller divisions extending to the secondary midvein. Rachis (Plural, Rachides). The stem of a fern beginning with the leafy portion. Refilexed. Curved backward and downward. Revolute. The margins rolled backward or outward. Scape. A naked stem. Segment. One of the divisions of a bipinnatifid frond. Serrate. Having the margin sharply cut into teeth pointing forward. Serrulate. Similar to serrate, only with finer teeth. Sessile. Connected to the stem without footstalk. Sinus. A cleft or rounded curve between two lobes. Spike. The tip of a peduncle bearing a close or sessile cluster of fruit. Sporangium (Plural, Sporangia). The case inclosing the spores. Spore. The fruit of cryptogams, corresponding to a seed. Stipe. The stem of a fern from the ground up to the leafy portion. GLOSSARY 155 Stolon. A runner with a disposition to root. Ternate, Consisting of three nearly equal divisions. Tuft. A cluster closely grouped. Whorl. A circle of leaves round the stem. Winged. Margined or bordered. INDEX INDEX Names marked with the asterisk (*) are descriptive text, but are given in the text itselt. Adder’s-Tongue, tog ff., 124. Adiantum pedatum, 8o. * Alpine Woodsia, 88. A spidinim acrostichoides, 39. *var. crispum, 40. var. 27uc1SUI, 40. aculeatum, var. Braunti, 40. Boottit, 2 acristtum, 27. var. Clintonianim, 28. cristatum X marginale, 31. SVAZrANS, 32. Goldianum, ae marginale, 2 *forima aneiborts 27% ue bOY ACENSe, 15. Pittsfordense, 36. simulatum, 16. spinilosum, 19. var. Concordianum, 20. var. @ilatatum, 20. var. tutermedium, 109. Thelypteris, 12. A splenium acrostichoides, 103. angustifolium, 103. ebeneunt, 92. var. [ortone, 93. var. ZNCISILNL, 03. ebenotdes, 100. filixfamina, 107. Montanum, GO. pinnatifidum, 94. platyneuron, 92. ¥*var. serratum, 93. Ruta-muraria, 99- thely plerotdes, 103. Trichomanes, 94. viride, 95. Beech Fern, Broad, 8 Long, 8. *Bladder Fern, Brittle, 71. Bulblet, 6: omen 73. Fragile, Blunt- lobed Woodsia, gt. *Bog Fern, 44. Boott’s Shield Fern, 23. — - Botrychinm dissectum, 115+ lanceolatunt, 120. Lunarta, v1. matricari@, 119. matricari@folium, 1g. *neglectum, 119. obliquum, 112. var. ¢ntermediunt, 116. simplex, 119. *tenebyosum, 120. ternal, V12. var. disse: cium, 115. sub-var. ¢xfermediumy, 116. var. obliguiam, 112. var. ruta@folium, 119. Virginianum, 123 *forma gracilis, 123. *Boulder Fern, 67. Brake, Common, 72. Braun’s Holly Fern, 4o. *Brittle Bladder Fern, 71. Broad Beech Fern, 8. Bulblet Bladder Fern, 68. Camptosorus rhizophyllus, 4. Chain Fern, Net-veined, 47. Virginia, 43- Christmas Fern, 39. Cinnamon Fern, 51. *Clayton’s Fern, 57. Cliff Brake, Purple, 75. Slender, 76. Climbing Fern, 79. Clinton’s Wood Fern, 28. Club-Moss, Common, 132. Burj zits *Interrupted, 127. *Shining, 131. Stiff, 127. Tree, 128. *Colt’s-Tail. 143. *Common Bladder Fern, 71. Common Brake, 72. Common Club-Moss, 132. not found at the head of the 160 Common Grape Fern, 112. Common Polypody, 3 Crested Marginal Fern, 31. Crested Shield Fern, 27. Cystopteris bulbifera, 68. Sragilis, 71. Dicksonia, Hairy, 64. Dicksonia pilosiuscula, 64. var. cristata, 67. punctilobula, 64. Dissected Grape Fern, 115. Dodge’s Ferm, 16. Dryopteris Boottii, 23. cristata, 27. var. Clintoniana, 28. cristata X marginalis, 31. Sragrans, 32. Goldieana, 35. marginalts, 24. Noveboracensts, 15. Pittsfordensis, 36. stmutlata, 16. spinulosa, 19. var. Concordiana, 20. var. dilatata, 23. var. intermedia, 23. Thelypteris, 12. *Dwarf Spleenwort, 95. *Eagle Fern, 75. Ebony Spleenwort, 92. Lqquisetum arvense, 140+ Sluviatile, 143. hyemale, 140. dimosum, 143. scirpoides, 143. sylvaticum, 139- *Evergreen Wood Fern, 24. Festoon Ground Pine, 128. Field Horsetail, 140. *Fine-haired Mountain Fern, 67. Fir Club-Moss, 131. *Flower-cup Fern, 88. *Flowering Fern, 51. *Foxtail, 143. Fragile Bladder Fern, 71. Fragrant Shield Fern, 32. Goldie’s Fern, 35. Grape Fern, Common, 112. Dissected, 115. Lance-leaved, 120. Little, 119. Matricary, 119. Ternate, 112. *Virginia, 123. Green Spleenwort, 9s. INDEX *Ground Pine, 128. Festoon, 128. Hairy Dicksonia, 64. *Hairy Woodsia, 84. *Hartford Fern, 80. *Hay-scented Fern, 67. Holly Fern, Braun’s, 4o. Horsetail, Field, 140. Sedge- -like, 143. *Swamp, 143. Wood, 139. Interrupted Fern, 52. *Interrupted Club-Moss, 127. *Jointed Rush, 143. Lady Fern, 107. Lance-leaved Grape Fern, 120. Little Grape Fern, 119. Long Beech Fern, 8. Lycopodium annotinum, 127. clavatum, 132. complanatum, 128. lucidulum, 131. obscurum var. dendrotdeum, 128. Selago, 131. Lygodium palmatum, 79. Maidenhair, 80. Maidenhair Spleenwort, 94. Marginal Shield Fern, 24. Marsh Fern, 12. Massachusetts Fern, 16. Matricary Grape Fern, 119. *Meadow Fern, 12. *Meadow Pine, 143. *Meriden Moonwort, 120. Moonwort, 111. *Mountain Fern, Fine-haired, 67. Mountain Spleenwort, 96. Narrow-leaved Spleenwort, 103. Nephrodium, Purdie’s Concord, 20. Net-veined Chain Fern, 47. New York Fern, 15. Northern Woodsia, 88. Oak Fern, 7 *Obtuse Woodsia, 91. Onoclea sensibilis, 62. *forma obtusilobata, 63. Struthiopleris, 58. Ophioglossum vulgatum, 124. Osmunda cinnamomea, 51. Claytoniana, 52. regalis, 48. Ostrich Fern, 58. INDEX Pellea atropurpurea, 75. gracilis, 76. Stellert, 76. Phegopteris Dryopteris, 7. hexagonoptera, 8. phegopteris, 8 dolypodioides, 8 *Pine, Ground, 128. *Running, 132. se Spleenwort, 94. Pipes, 14 Pittsford ‘Shield Fern, 36. Polypodium vulgare, 3. Polypody, Common, 3. Polystichum acrostichoides, 39- Braunit, 40. Pteris aquilina, 72. Purdie’s Concord Nephrodium, 20. Purple Cliff Brake, 75. Rattlesnake Fern, 123. *Rock Fern, 3. Royal Fern, 48. *Running Pine, 132. Rusty Woodsia, 84. Scott’s Spleenwort, 100. Scouring-Rush, r4o. Sedge-like Horsetail, 143. Sensitive Fern, 62. Shield Fern, Boott’s, 23. Crested, 27. Fragrant, 32. Marginal, 24. Pittsford, 36. *Shining Club-Moss, 131. Silvery Spleenwort, 103. Slender Cliff Brake, 76. Smooth Woodsia, 87. *Snake Fern, 3. Spinulose Wood Fern, 19. Spleenwort, Ebony, 92. *Dwarf, 95. Spleenwort, Green, 95. Maidenhair, 94. Mountain, 96. Narrow-leaved, 103. Pinnatifid, 94. Scott’s, 100. Silvery, 103. *Swamp, 103. Wall Rue, gg. Stiff Club-Moss, 127. *Struthiopteris Germanica, 58. Swamp Evergreen, 131. *Swamp Horsetail, 143. *Swamp Spleenwort, 103. *Sweet-grass Fern, 67. Ternate Grape Fern, 112. Tree Club-Moss, 128. Virginia Chain Fern, 43. *Virginia Grape Fern, 123. Walking Fern, 4. Wall Rue Spleenwort, gg. *Winter Brake, 76. Wood Fern, Clinton’s, 28. *Evergreen, 24. Spinulose, 19. Wood Horsetail, 139. *Woodsia, Alpine, 88. Blunt-lobed, 91. *Hairy, 84. Northern, 88. *Obtuse, gt. Rusty, 84. Smooth, 87. Woodsia alpina, 88. glabella, 87. hyperborea, 88. Llvensis, 84. obtusa, 91 Woodwardia angustifolia, 47. areolata, 47. Virginica, 43. 161 Che Riverside press Electrotyped and printed by H.O. Houghton & Co. Cambridge, Mass.,U S A. Bureau Nature Study, CARNELL UNIVERSITY, Ithaca, N. Y. a FILMED: = *° eee : Sibe 3 3 areas 13 utd a4 a4 ai i 3 S 3 : 3 ta ear Se geebece eietiiaiaisy4+ 4 : bg BE Ge kat We be et i re seeests