9$ 
BRITISH FERNS. 
assume a pendulous habit, spreading out in a circular 
manner from the clumps of roots which are so well 
known in every rural district. The sori are arranged 
at short intervals on the upper portion of the frond, 
in the direction of the veins. The name of this species 
is an alteration of Scolopendra, or Centipede, from a 
fancied resemblance between the feet of the centipede 
and the arrangement of the sori. It attains perfec¬ 
tion in July and August, and remains green all the 
winter. The difference of circumstances, especially in 
cultivation, causes such changes in the appearance of 
this plant that many varieties have been described ; 
but few are, however, permanent, or require special 
notice. Scolopendrium crispum , Scolopendrium poly- 
s chides, Scolopendrium multifidum, and Scolopendrium 
lacertum are those we have thought most permanent, 
and likely to be met with. 
Some forms of this fern are viviparous, or have buds 
separating from the stem and growing spontaneously. 
The Hart’s Tongue and its varieties are commonly 
found on shady banks, in the clefts of old rocks, and 
about old buildings throughout Great Britain ; though 
not so frequently in Scotland as elsewhere. In the 
Isle of Wight it grows luxuriantly, and in the woody 
spots between Ventnor and Niton may be seen in 
perfection. It delights in underwoods and shrub¬ 
beries ; and the large handsome tufts consist of fronds 
arching from the centre, like the long feathers of a 
cock’s tail. 
