ATHYRIUM FILIX-FGEMINA. 



93 



fronds from nine to ten inches ia length, and two inches in 

 width. As its name implies, it is exceedingly variahle in its 

 character. Pinnae short and broad, being frequently but little 

 divided, and as frequently quite divided, pointed, or flattened, 

 branched, or furcate. Pinnules very variable in size and form, 

 some as well as some puma) depauperated or wanting. Two 

 dissimilar fronds will illustrate how various are the features. 

 The illustrations are from Mr. Jiarncb' fronds. 



Fig. 415. — Middle pinnte. 



Variabile-Jehvisii, Jercis. (Fig. 415.) — A d^varf narrov/- 

 fronded laciniated variety, with very variously-formed fronds ; 

 the pinnjE and pinnules, and especially the latter, vaiiously 

 depauperated, laciniated, and sometimes almost wanting. Length 

 of frond nine inches, width in centre two inches and a quarter, 

 narrow at the base, and acuminate at the apex. My thanks 

 are due to Mr. Swynfen Jervis, of Darlaston Hall, Staffordshire, 

 for fronds. 



Fig. 416.— Pinnas. 



Vernoni^, Jervis. (Fig. 416.) — An interesting distinct 

 variety, the divisions of the fronds having a frilled character, 

 as in conioides and latifolium. Found by Miss Vernon, and 



