Polystichum munitum
Sold as: 3.5” Pots
Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum) has dark green fronds that grow 1.5 to 6 feet tall, in a tight clump spreading out radially from a round base. Individual fronds live for 1.5 to 2.5 years and remain attached to the rhizome after withering. Sword Ferns prefer the understory of moist coniferous forests at low elevations. It grows best in well-drained, acidic soils. Sword Ferns are very tough and can survive occasional dry periods but do best with consistent moisture and dappled sunlight.
Classification: Perennial
Key Characteristics: Evergreen
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Water Requirements: Dry to moist soil
Ease of Growing: High
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time: July
Spreads: No
Benefits: Wildlife, Rain garden, Wildfire resistant, Riparian zones, Deer resistant, On Portland Plant List
Edible: Yes
Mature Height: 2–5 feet
Mature Width: 2–4 feet
Photo Credits:
Image 1: Ashley Smithers via Clark Conservation District
Image 2: Mackenzie Hagedorn via Clark Conservation District
Image 3: Ashley Smithers via Clark Conservation District
