74 FERNS OF KENTUCKY. 
few inches in length. In winter the summit of this stem 
is occupied by a mass of incipient fronds, each rolled up 
separately and nestling in a bed of chaffy scales. In May 
or June these fronds become developed, a score or upward 
being usually produced. They reach maturity early in 
summer, during which time a few additional fronds are 
generally developed from the center. The form of the 
frond is lanceolate, more or less broad; and they are sup- 
ported on stipeles, which are scaly at the base, and usually 
about a third of the entire length of the fronds. The divi- 
sion of the fronds is bi-pinnate, pinne lanceolate, drawn 
out at the point, the pinnules more or less lobed or pin- 
natifid. The delicate texture of the frond renders the 
venation very distinct.” * 
This fern is very common in Kentucky. I have found 
the best specimens in Bullitt County, in deep ravines, at 
the base of the knobs. It is apt to vary considerably, 
sometimes bifurcating at the apex of the frond, and some- 
times with a dark, almost purple stem, and is generally 
showy. Young collectors are inclined to confound this 
plant with other species, but the slightly-curved fruit- 
patches will readily distinguish it. 
*Moore’s History of British Ferns, 3d ed., p. 123. 
