100 IIISTOllY OF BRITISH FERNS. 



site, and are narrow, tapering, and pinnatifidly divided, 

 bearinrf their fructifications almost close to the margins of 

 the segments, and in most cases very abundantly. In this 

 species the divisions of the fronds are flat, not rcvolute, 

 as in L. Thelifpteris, which most resembles it. Each 

 segment or lobe has a distinct and slightly sinuous mid- 

 vein, which is alternately branched, the branches simple 

 or divided, and bearing the spore-cases in clusters near 

 their extremity. 



This plant is found most luxuriant in woods, but occurs 

 profusely on mountainous heaths. It may be considered 

 common in England, Wales, and Scotland — in the latter 

 country often very profuse on the mountain-sides ; but 

 in Ireland is much more rare. As a garden plant, it is 

 effective for shady rockwork, and when established, grows 

 freely if kept sufficiently moist. 



Besides the name we have here adopted, this Fern has 

 borne the following titles : — Aspidium Oreopteris, Poly- 

 podlum Oreopteris., Lastrea Oreopteris, Plmopteris Oreo- 

 pteris, Pol If podium mGntanum, Polijstichum montamim, 

 and Ilemestheum monlanum 



