HABIT A TS OF FERNS. 
23 
must therefore be taken as suggestive, and not as a strict 
rule to be duly followed : Maiden-hair ( Adiantum Capil- 
lus veneris) : this fern is found in moist caves and in the 
fissures of rocks, especially near the sea-coast; it seems 
particularly to delight in localities where water trickles 
down the surface of the rock. Hard Fern ( Blechnum 
spicant ) is almost universally found, especially in woods, 
on commons and heaths ; being very fond of moisture, it 
prefers clayey or gravelly soil; it is rarely found on chalk. 
Common Polypody ( Polypodium vulgare ) may be con¬ 
sidered the most common of all native ferns ; it is found 
chiefly on banks, old trees, heaths, commons, etc. (fig. 6.) 
Holly Fern ( Polystichum Lonchitis) is almost confined 
to Yorkshire, and even there in very bleak situations. 
Mountain Fern ( Allosorus crispus ), as its name im¬ 
plies, is found chiefly in the Highlands of Scotland, 
though it may occasionally be found in Eridge Woods, 
near Tunbridge Wells. Common Scale Fern ( Ceterach 
officmarum ), on rocks and old walls (fig. 8), chiefly in 
limestone districts, abundant in Somersetshire. Male 
Fern: this fern, though very common, is plentifully found 
in rich soils and shady places; it grows larger every year, 
