71 
V. CTSTOPTERIS. 
the same root at different periods, fronds resembling each 
of the forms above enumerated. The species lias a short 
creeping or quasi-tufted caudex, producing numerous wiry 
roots. The fronds, which are very delicate in every state, are 
terminal, and adherent to the caudex ; they grow up early 
in the spring, and die down annually, soon arriving at 
maturity, and as speedily declining, a succession of fronds 
being produced throughout the summer and autumn, but 
disappearing with the first frosts of winter. The stipes is 
( smooth, of a brown or 
blackish colour, very 
brittle, from about 
one-third to one-half 
the height of the frond, 
destitute of scales, ex- 
cepting a few small 
ones at the base; in 
the upper part it is 
usually slightly bor- 
dered or winged. 
The fronds are bipin- 
nate, and they grow 
up several together 
more or less erect 
The general form is 
lanceolate, and the 
size very variable 
from three or four to 
twelve or fifteen inches 
in height. The pinnae 
are lanceolate, with 
the pinnules distinct, 
ovate acute or pointed, 
tapering at the base, 
and copiously deeply 
and sharply toothed 
on the margin ; the 
[Cystopteris angustata.] 
larger and lower ones 
