CETEEACH. 99 



that is, it is first divided into branches corresponding with 

 the pinnae, and these again into another series of branches, 

 on which, distinct, but clustered, the globose stalkless spore- 

 cases are produced. The spore-cases are two-valved, and 

 open transversely when ripe ; the valves are concave. 



Occasionally, though very rarely, two fertile branches are 

 produced, and there is a variety in which the pinnae are 

 pinnatifid. 



This species is widely distributed, but local, occurring in 

 open heaths and pastures, where the soil is peaty, and not 

 very wet. The same plant occurs in other parts of Europe, 

 and also in North America. 



The Moonwort is not very easily cultivated. It may, 

 however, be preserved in pots in a cold frame, if transplanted 

 while dormant into rather unctuous peaty soil, and kept 

 from either of the extremes of drought or saturation. The 

 roots should not often be disturbed when once established. 



The Moonwort is the Osmimda Lunaria of Linnaeus. 



Genus IX. CETERACH, Willdenow. 



THE genus Ceterach furnishes only one British species ; and 

 this is so different from all others as to be distinctly re- 



