Polystichum munitum | Western Sword Fern
DESCRIPTION
Polystichum munitum, commonly known as the Western Sword Fern, is a resilient evergreen fern celebrated for its elegant, arching fronds and adaptability to various environments. Native to the western regions of North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest, this fern thrives in shaded woodland settings, bringing lush greenery throughout the year. Its bold fronds feature dense rows of deep green leaflets that give it a textured, layered appearance.
Unlike many ferns, Polystichum munitum remains verdant even in colder seasons, making it a valuable addition for year-round interest in shade gardens and forested landscapes. Its natural resilience and ability to spread gradually enhance its role in groundcover or in stabilizing slopes. This classic fern brings a sense of the wild, natural forest floor to cultivated gardens, harmonizing beautifully with other shade-loving plants.
DESCRIPTION
Polystichum munitum, commonly known as the Western Sword Fern, is a resilient evergreen fern celebrated for its elegant, arching fronds and adaptability to various environments. Native to the western regions of North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest, this fern thrives in shaded woodland settings, bringing lush greenery throughout the year. Its bold fronds feature dense rows of deep green leaflets that give it a textured, layered appearance.
Unlike many ferns, Polystichum munitum remains verdant even in colder seasons, making it a valuable addition for year-round interest in shade gardens and forested landscapes. Its natural resilience and ability to spread gradually enhance its role in groundcover or in stabilizing slopes. This classic fern brings a sense of the wild, natural forest floor to cultivated gardens, harmonizing beautifully with other shade-loving plants.
DESCRIPTION
Polystichum munitum, commonly known as the Western Sword Fern, is a resilient evergreen fern celebrated for its elegant, arching fronds and adaptability to various environments. Native to the western regions of North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest, this fern thrives in shaded woodland settings, bringing lush greenery throughout the year. Its bold fronds feature dense rows of deep green leaflets that give it a textured, layered appearance.
Unlike many ferns, Polystichum munitum remains verdant even in colder seasons, making it a valuable addition for year-round interest in shade gardens and forested landscapes. Its natural resilience and ability to spread gradually enhance its role in groundcover or in stabilizing slopes. This classic fern brings a sense of the wild, natural forest floor to cultivated gardens, harmonizing beautifully with other shade-loving plants.
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Family: Dryopteridaceae
Height: 2-4 feet tall
Width: 3-4 feet wide
Foliage color: Dark green, leathery fronds
Flower color: None (non-flowering)
Bloom time: Non-flowering; provides evergreen foliage
Light requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Water requirements: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; remove dead fronds in early spring
Growing zone: USDA Zones 3-8
Wildlife attractors: Provides habitat for small wildlifeThis plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
