146 
E uropean Ferns. 
where they are described at length, with full particulars as to distribution and the like. 
The accompanying figures illustrate the forms of pinnule most commonly met with. 
When speaking of Woodwardia radicans (p. 78), and also of Camptosorus rhizophyllus 
(p. 65), we referred to the mode of increase from buds or bulbils which is noticeable in 
these and in many other ferns. Mr. Moore’s remarks upon similar instances in Polystichum 
aiigidare , and in other ferns, are worth reproducing here, if only to show the views which 
he holds upon the point, and also as showing how largely this peculiarity is met with 
among our common British ferns. Speaking of P. angular e, he says : — 
“A remarkable proliferous or viviparous character has been observed in several of the 
varieties of this species, as well as in many other British Ferns, including Polystichum 
Lonchitis ; P. aculeatum , with its variety lobatum ; Lastrea Filix-mas, two varieties; L. cemula; 
Asplenium lanceolatum ; A. Ruta-muraria ; Scolopendrium vulgare, several varieties; Blechnum 
Spicant, etc. Some of the varieties of the present species propagate extensively by means of 
these bulbils, which form either towards the base of the stipes or along the rachis in the axils 
of the lower pinnae, or, in some instances, on the veins of the fronds. Although among exotic 
ferns instances of this viviparous growth were known to occur frequently, yet our 
acquaintance with so many bulbil-bearing British ferns is due to the scrutiny of a few 
zealous cultivators, especially Mr. Wollaston, of Chislehurst, Dr. Allchin, of Bayswater, Mr. 
Clapham, of Scarborough, and Mr. Baxter, of Oxford. Most of the instances above referred 
to were observed during the summer of 1854. Mr. Baxter has suggested that it may be 
a result of pot-culture, all the instances in which it has been observed having been on potted 
plants. We think it may be the combined result of the check caused by the cramping 
of the roots incidental to pot-culture, and the excitement arising from the very moist 
