100 
HISTORY OF BRITISH FERNS. 
site, and are narrow, tapering, and pinnatifidly divided, 
bearing tlieir fructifications almost close to the margins of 
the segments, and in most cases very abundantly. In this 
species the divisions of the fronds are flat, not revolute, 
as in L. Thelypteris, which most resembles it. Each 
segment or lobe has a distinct and slightly sinuous mid- 
vein, which is alternately branched, the branches simple 
or divided, and bearing the spore-cases in clusters near 
their extremity. 
This plant is found most luxuriant in woods, but occurs 
profusely on mountainous heaths. It may be considered 
common in England, Wales, and Scotland — in the latter 
country often very profuse on the mountain-sides ; but 
in Ireland is much more rare. As a garden plant, it is 
efiective for shady rockwork, and when established, grows 
freely if kept sufficiently moist. 
Besides the name we have here adopted, this Fern has 
borne the following titles : — Aspidium, Oreopteris, Poly- 
podium Oreopteris, Lastrea Oreopteris, Phegopteris Oreo- 
pteris, Polypodium montanum^ Polystichum montanum^ 
and Hemestheum montanum 
