65 
of man. Just so our Ferns. From some particular posi- 
tion or injury, they assume unusual forms, which are com- 
monly denominated monstrosities. The varieties generally 
occur, to a considerable extent, in a particular locality. Only 
single instances of monstrosities are found, and those only 
in one plant, and sometimes merely in part of a plant. 
With regard to varieties, we may also add that they continue 
constant in the same form as long as they live. If, however, 
their spores (seeds) be thrown into the earth, especially 
when placed in a situation where the contrary form prevails, 
then the plant often becomes changed to its original type. 
How are those choice apples prized which are placed on the 
table for the dessert, and for which the gardeners charge an 
exorbitant price ! Yet the pips or seeds of these often pro- 
duce a crab tree, whose fruit is most despicable, hardly fit 
to make the sourest vinegar. 
We will now proceed to describe some of these unusual 
appearances, or varieties of the species of Fern. 
Adder’s Tongue. Opliioglossum vulgatum» 
See page 11. 
The fronds are sometimes furnished with two, three, or 
four spikes. These have been found in several parts of the 
district. 
Common Polypody. Folypodiim vulgare. 
See page 18. 
1. Serrated Common Polypody. Serratum. This merely 
differs from the ordinary form in having the edges serrated 
or notched. 
2. Forked Common Polypody. Bijldim. Some of the 
lobes are forked at their ends, especially at the lower part 
of the frond. The mid-vein separates into each fork, and 
if it be fertile, the clusters of fruit are on eacli side of the 
separated mid-vein. This variety is found between Hawk- 
church village and Broom, and near W ey croft turnpike gate 
and Smallridge, both in the parish of Axminster, and at Hob- 
knap in the parish of Musbury on hedge-banks by the 
road-side. 
F 
