246 
New Zealand Ferns 
(96) A. Hookerianum (Sir J. D. Hooker). A small, 
dark-green species with fronds of an open pattern, 
usually growing below overhanging banks, on steep 
faces, and on rocky ground. 
Description . — Root short, stout, rounded, clothed at the top 
with brownish scales. Stalks 1 to 4 inches long or more, greyish- 
green. Fronds tufted, spreading, 2 to 10 inches long, without the 
stalk, by 1 to 4 inches broad, almost membranous, dark-green. 
Seeds, 2 to 5 on a leaflet, short, oblong, remote from the margin. 
From Mangonui and Kaitaia to the south of Otago; but often 
local. Sea-level to 2,500 feet. 
A very variable little plant, reminding one of small 
forms of A. bulbifenun, but more open. It is easily cul- 
tivated. Found also in New South Wales and Victoria. 
