Botanical Name: Polystichum munitum
Common Name: Western sword fern
Type of Plant: fern: perennial
Character evergreen
 
Habit of Growth:
Overall Shape clumping, arching fern with stiff, leathery, dark green fronds which resemble large Boston fern fronds; forms a slowly spreading clump which does not spread by runners
Height 3 to 5'
Spread 3 to 5'
Growth Rate slow to moderate
 
Environment:
Exposure outdoor shade is preferred
Soil prefers a rich, well amended organic soil
Hardiness hardy (all zones)
 
Morphology:
Leaves pinnately compound, to 4' long and 10" across; pinnae linear with sharp teeth near tips; petioles to 2' long
Flowers none
Fruit brown sori; sub-marginal
 
Propagation:
spore
 
Usage:
good large scale groundcover in woodland landscapes, also good for cut foliage; good mixed with redwoods or other conifer trees; looks best where coastal fog contributes humidity
 
Landscape Care:
Watering prefers ample water; not drought tolerant
Fertilizing low nitrogen fertilizer in spring
Pruning remove dead fronds
Pests/Diseases none
Special Conditions/Other wash or mist foliage regularly for best appearance
 
Origin: Western North America
Family: Polypodiaceae

Notes:
 
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