122 
POLYPODIACE^. 
the figure (fig. a) to nine inches in length, exclusive of the na- 
ked part of the stem, which is usually twice as long as the frond. 
The figure of the frond is triangular and acute at the apex ; 
it is pinnate, the pinnae being pinnatifid, linear, and very acute 
at the apex ; the lower pair of pinnae are turned back from the 
apex of the frond ; they are united to the stem by the midrib 
only : the remaining pinnae point forwards, and are united to the 
stem by their entire diameter, and also to each other : the 
fronds, including their stem, are pale green and hirsute ; they 
are fertile only. 
The lateral veins of the pinnules are few in number, alternate, 
almost invariably undivided, and extend to the margin, each 
bearing a circular cluster of capsules near its extremity ; these 
clusters consequently form a submarginal series ; they are of a 
brown colour. In one of the detached pinnules in the cut (fig. b) 
will be seen the position of the veins, and the attachment of 
the capsules ; in the other (fig. c) the clusters of capsules are 
represented in their natural situation. 
