54 HOW TO KNOW THE FERNS 



N. dilatatum and N. uliginosa. It may be men- 

 tioned that some botanists consider N. dilatatum 

 to be the most important of the three forms. 

 The chief points about N. dilatatum are 

 the very dark green fronds which are ex- 

 tremely broad at the base ; these spring from 

 a massive caudex. The whole plant has a 

 very robust appearance, and it is exceedingly 

 common. Providing the situation is shady this 



Nephrodium dilatatum. 



Fern is not particular as to its place of growth. 

 In the same way the preceding species N. 

 cristatum is regarded by some as a doubtful 

 species. On this account the beginner will find 

 IV, spinulosum rather difficult to identify, and 

 he must be prepared for departures from the 

 present type which is here described. The 

 Prickly Buckler Fern. 



The frond of this species rises from an erect 

 root-stock. The length of the leaves varies from 

 one to three feet, and the stipes is usually about 



