In memory of Bryan John Yorke (3rd January 1948 - 28th May 2022).
A hugely knowledgeable but utterly humble man. He loved this area, and enjoyed sharing its natural riches through his informative and delightful blogs.
They will continue to be available, for reference and discovery.
Thank you, Bryan, for your warmth, wisdom, and wit.
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The lonchitiforme is a rare hybrid, in fact you could probably count the number of specimens found in the UK on one hand and thats being conservative. It was a privilege to find one and to handle and then take photos was even more special. I doubt very much it will ever be found on Hutton Roof simply because of the shortage of Setiferum, but one never knows for sure!
I am putting most of my energies these days trying to find the equally rare P.x Illyricum which is the hybrid between the P. Lonchitis (Holly Fern) and the Polystitchum aculeatum. With this I do feel that I am within a chance that one could possibly be found on Hutton Roof if one hasn't already been found . After saying all that there are very subtle differences in the look between either Illyricum or lonchitiforme, not sure but think it will be down to chromosome levels at the end of the day.
Ah! just remembered there is another way of telling and thats by checking out the lowest pinnae and note the small difference of the gaps, see this photo crib:
When I look careful at the lonchitiforme (photos below) I can see so many resemblances in keeping with both rare hybrids (x illyricum and x lonchitiforme). And just has it should be you look at the plant from a short distance away and realize just how striking a look of lonchitis (Holly fern) with its scythe shaped pinnae and parts of the rest of its profiles, height and width of fronds and the tailing off with the lower parts of the frond. Also when you look carefully at the pinnae you see again that typical in between hybrid look with the top side of SOME of the pinnae hardly notched compared to other pinnae which are heavily notched. Really the signs shine out at you as long as you dont expect too much!
