120 HISTORY OP BRITISH FERNS. 
pretty evenly distributed in two lines along each pinnule 
or lobe; they are covered by small reniform indusia, which 
have their margin uneven, and fringed with small round 
stalkless glands. The, whole frond is covered with similar 
glandular bodies. 
This Fern, which is most abundant in Ireland and the 
western parts of England, occurs in damp sheltered woods, 
and on shady banks and rocks. It is of an elegant droop¬ 
ing aspect, and is cultivated without difficulty. It is the 
more valuable as a pot plant, from its moderate size and 
its evergreen character. 
Genus VI. ATHYRIUM. 
The genus Athyrium , that to which the Lady Fern is 
referred, is one of the most variable among our native 
Ferns ; though the varieties it presents, and which have 
been from time to time looked upon as so many distinct 
kinds, are now almost universally considered as different 
phases of one species. The species certainly puts on many 
appearances, which fact seems inappropriate to its name ; 
