Polystichum munitum

Sword Fern
Polystichum munitum
Type: Evergreen Fern
Exposure: Part / Full Shade
Water: Regular

Sword ferns are a very familiar sight in this part of the world; the woods are full of ’em. But their abundance should not detract from their beauty and usefulness in ornamental situations. Growing to a maximum of 6ft (1.8m) high and wide, sword ferns are prized for arching fronds, consisting of rows of finely serrated, glossy green leaves. This reliable, nearly maintenance-free plant can be cut to the ground during the winter, which will result in fresh-looking, lighter green fronds in the spring (this is a good way to keep it compact too), or simply trimmed to remove dead or damaged fronds, which keeps it neat and fresh-looking without reducing its size much. It’s indispensable for west coast native plantings and woodland gardens; it plays well with other ferns and shade plants.

Cheers,

John