84 



FERNS 



Sporophyte. In the ferns the sporophyte, while dependent 

 on the gametophyte for a time, finally becomes independent 

 of it and becomes the dominant plant. It has true roots, 

 stems and leaves. 



FIG. 46. Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) showing the early spring 

 stage with coiled leaves. 



Root. The roots develop apical growth, with branches 

 originating from the cortex of the primary or first root, and 

 with absorbing, conducting, storage and epidermal tissues 

 well developed. 



