On the identity of Cyathea multiflora, type of the genus 
Hemitelia R. Br.* 
WILLIAM R. Maxon 
(WITH PLATE 35) 
The genus Hemitelia was established by Robert Brown in 
1810 for a group of tree ferns, of which the following previously 
described species were known to him and were stated as represen- 
tatives of his new genus: (1) Cyathea multiflora Sm., (2) C. hor- 
rida Sm., and (3) C. capensis Sm. Fortunately these are now 
regarded, as they have been generally in the past, as congeneric. 
If, then, the genus Hemitelia is to be recognized as valid, there can 
be no objection to a selection of the first-named species, Cyathea 
multiflora, as its type. This course has been followed in recent 
years by both L. M. Underwoodt and C. Christensen,t and 
has been tacitly accepted, although quite a different typification 
of the genus was long ago proposed by G. Gardner.§ 
Concerning the identity of Cyathea multiflora, however, 
there has been little but confusion, almost from the time of its 
publication. Following a brief description (quoted from Will- 
denow) Hooker commented upon this species in the Species 
Filicum|| as follows: 
“Hab. Jamaica; ex Herb. Banks. (Smith).—With this am 
unacquainted, and Mr. Brown is the authority for its being 
referred to Hemitelia. Sir Jas. Smith, with whom the species 
originated, has merely said of it (under Cyathea) ‘ Caudice 
——., fronde bipinnata pinnatifida, laciniis obtusis serratis, 
pacha: ace floribus sparsis, calyce lacero.’ Willdenow, who 
seems to have been acquainted with the species, and whose 
character I have given above, further remarks upon it, ° Rachis 
margined on each side with a narrow decurrent line. Partial 
pinnze 2 feet long. Pinnules 4 inches long, an inch broad at 
* Published by permission of the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. 
+ Mem. Torrey Club 6: 268. 1899. 
t Index Fil. xvu. 1906. 
§ London Journ. Bot. 1: 438-442. 1842. 
|| Sp. Fil. 5: 32. 1846. 
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