By contrasting the figure here given with our representation
of P. iatifolia at Plate VIII,, the difierence between typical forms
of these plants will be readily seen, the present being characterised
by its dark colour, cuneate base, and more lanceolate general
outline. I wish it could be said that such characters admitted of
no approximation to their opposites. But though specimens may
be collected in plenty in which these peculiarities can clearly be
seen ; yet it must be admitted that other individuals are frequently
found which show them in a more or less weakened
state, and approach in greater or less degree to some of the forms
of P. Iatifolia, so that, on the whole, I am disposed to consider
these species as not permanently distinguishable from each other.
If we take merely the extreme forms of each, such an opinion
will appear strange, but it is not arrived at without consideration,
and a careful comparison of a great number of specimens from
different localities, and collected at different seasons of the year.
Nevertheless, as many botanists think differently, and among
them my accurate and experienced friend Mrs. Griffiths, I deem
it right to retain both species in this work, and to give, of each,
such figures as wiU clearly point out the characters severally
attributed to their typical conditions.
Kg. 1. PUNOTAEIA PLANTAGINEA; plants :—o/¿¿e natural size. 2. Portion of
the surface, with &sorm. 3. Portion, with antheridial 4 . Section of the
frond:— all magnijied.