_Nephrodium spinulosum._ The specific name means that the plant has little spines. This Fern is associated with other forms, and in some quarters has not been regarded as a definite species at all. Some of the varieties, or, as some authorities say, actually distinct species, with which it is associated have been called _N. dilatatum_ and _N. uliginosa_. It may be mentioned that some botanists consider _N. dilatatum_ to be the most important of the three forms. The chief points about _N. dilatatum_ are the very dark green fronds which are extremely broad at the base; these spring from a massive caudex. The whole plant has a very robust appearance, and it is exceedingly common. Providing the situation is shady this Fern is not particular as to its place of growth. In the same way the preceding species _N. cristatum_ is regarded by some as a doubtful species. On this account the beginner will find _N. spinulosum_ rather difficult to identify, and he must be prepared for departures from the present type which is here described. The Prickly Buckler Fern. [Illustration: Nephrodium dilatatum.] The frond of this species rises from an erect root-stock. The length of the leaves varies from one to three feet, and the stipes is usually about a third of this in measurement. The fronds are triangular in outline, and it is seen that the pinnules nearest to the rachis are considerably larger than the upper ones. This gives a very tapering appearance to the pinnæ. The borders of the pinnules are deeply cut, and the lobes are adorned with tiny points which give a somewhat prickly appearance. The lobes are most prominent on the lowest pinnules, and are also far more pronounced on the lowest pinnæ than they are on the upper divisions of the frond. The sori are placed on small veins which grow outwards from the midrib of the pinnule. These are covered with kidney-shaped indusia. As has been indicated, the Prickly Buckler Fern varies enormously, both in size and in almost every other particular. The Prickly Buckler Fern is not uncommon in parts of England, and is to be found in damp woods, especially by the sides of streams. It seems to be less abundant in other parts of the kingdom. It is of easy culture in the garden. The Prickly Buckler Fern retains its fronds through the winter. _Nephrodium æmulum._ Here the specific name is taken from a Latin word meaning “comparable with”; the reference is to the similarity of the species of _N. spinulosum_. Some botanists have considered that _N. æmulum_ is merely a variety of _N. spinulosum_, though the species seems to be quite distinct. The species is also called _Lastrea æmula_; _L. fœniscii_ and _L. recurva_. The Hay Scented or Triangular Buckler Fern.