THE LASTREAS 



163 



Lastrea Spinulosa (The Spiny Buckler Fern) 

 (Plate XXII) 



For a description of this Fern, which we regard as a sub-variety 

 or sub-species of the L. dilatata section, we cannot do better than 



refer to Fig. 181 and Plate XXII 

 which can be imputed to it. 



Fig. 181. L. spinulosa (part of pinna). 



There are no marked varieties 



Lastrea Rigida (the Rigid Buckler Fern) 



(Plate XXI) 



This Lastrea is entirely confined to Limestone districts of some 

 elevation. It roughly resembles a somewhat small, stiff-growing 

 Male Fern, and like that Fern the fronds (Fig. 182) arise in circlets 



Fig. 182. L. rigida (pinna). 



from an erect rootstock, but as its fronds have a somewhat mealy 

 appearance, owing to numerous glands on their surface, it is easily 

 distinguished. In cultivation, the usual compost may be used, 

 but with an admixture of limestone. It is deciduous. The only 

 constant variety, cristata, was found by Mr. F. A. Barraud, we 

 believe near Ingleborough, Yorks ; a thoroughbred, prettily crested 

 at all tips, but, unfortunately, it is not now in existence, and is 

 only mentioned to stimulate further search. 



