158 HISTORY OP BRITISH FERNS. 



but the intermediate state, which is the most common of 

 these abnormal forms, is at least sufficiently different to be 

 considered distinct. 



This common and free-growing Pern is found in hedge- 

 banks, and similar situations; and being abundant, easily 

 cultivated, nearly evergreen, and withal possessing consi- 

 derable elegance of growth, has much to recommend its 

 admission to a prominent position in the Pern garden. 



This plant is often, even now, referred to the genus Aspi- 

 dium, and was formerly included under that of Poly podium. 



POLYSTICHUM ANGULARE, PresL The Angular-lobed 

 Prickly Pern. (Plate Y. fig. 2.) 



A strong- growing, tufted- stemmed species, sometimes 

 forming large masses. The fronds are lanceolate, from two 

 to four or five feet high, persistent through ordinary winters, 

 and in sheltered situations retaining their verdure unim- 

 paired until the new fronds are produced. It is one of the 

 most graceful of all the native species. The stipes, which 

 varies from a third to a fourth of the length of the entire 

 frond, is very shaggy, with reddish chaffy scales, which scales, 

 though of smaller size, are continued throughout the upper 

 parts of the frond. The fronds are bipinnate, with numerous 

 tapering, distinct pinnse, having their pinnules flat, some- 



