COMMON BUCKLER FERN, 



OR MALE FICHN. 

 Lastrea Filix-mas.* PKESL. 



The Male Fern is so called from its robust appearance 

 in contrast with the more delicate though similar Lady 

 Fern (Filix-foemina). It is an annual except in sheltered 

 spots, where the old fronds will continue green until the 

 new come out. One of the commonest of our Ferns, 

 it is yet one of the most beautiful, especially on account 

 of its coronal growth, like a circle of erect but gracefully 

 waving feathers springing from one stem, the fronds 



* Polypodium Filix-mas (Linnaeus), Aspidium Filix-mas, &c. 



