226 
ASPIDIACE.E. 
LASTEiEA RECURVA, Newman. 
This beautiful fern grows amidst grass in exposed and rocky 
situations, and also abounds in warm and sheltered woods, es- 
pecially in the vicinity of water-courses ; the latter appears its 
natural habitat, since in the former situation it is dwarf, less co- 
piously fruited, and appears altogether less healthy and vigorous. 
I am compelled to neglect many communications which possibly 
refer to this species, because I find the plant so imperfectly 
known. In every locality mentioned, I have either seen the 
plant growing, or possess specimens. It must by no means be 
presumed that I suppose the English range confined to the three 
counties I have mentioned, but these are the only English 
habitats for the accuracy of which I am enabled to vouch from 
actual observation. 
Cornwall. — I am indebted to the Rev. W. T. Bree and to Mr. 
Alfred Greenwood, for specimens from the vicinity of Penzance. 
Cumberland. — I am indebted to Mr. Finder for specimens 
gathered near St. Bee’s head, in this county. 
Sussex. — I am indebted to Mr. Bree for a specimen procured 
by Mr. Dickson from this county ; and to Mr. E. Jenner of Lewes 
for several others, gathered at Eridge rocks, Tunbridge Wells. 
Mr. Jenner had also the kindness to conduct me to the spot 
where it abounds, and thus afforded me the pleasure of examin- 
ing the plant in every stage, while yet growing : I found that 
every character seemed to justify the opinion I had formed in 
Ireland four years previously, of its being perfectly distinct from 
multijlora. Mr. Luxford has found the same plant upon the 
moist, wooded slope opposite the rocks at West Hoathly. 
I have not observed this fern in Wales, neither have I receiv- 
ed a single specimen from any part of the principality. 
From Scotland I have seen no specimen, neither have I ob- 
served it in my walks in that country. 
In Ireland it is very abundant, and indeed is quite one of the 
commoner ferns. 
Antrim. — I first saw this beautiful fern growing luxuriantly 
below the basaltic cliffs at Fair head. 
Clare. — Near Loop-head. 
