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western sword fern

western sword fern

Polystichum munitum

perennialβ›… part shadeπŸ’§πŸ’§ moderate waterZone 3b – Zone 9b

A native Pacific Northwest fern with deep green, leathery fronds that form dense clumps. Excellent for shady woodland gardens and as a groundcover, thriving in moist forest conditions.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
2–3.5β€² tall Γ— 1.5–3β€² wide
Dormancy
evergreen

Tolerances & Soil

low

Flood Tolerance

low
Zone 3bZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 3b to Zone 9b

pH Range

5.87.5
7.0
3.556.589
pH range: 5.8 to 7.5

Soil Texture

Medium

Seasonality

Season of Interest

SpringSummerFallWinter

Succession Role

early successionalmid successional

Native to the United States

Native Range

Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, California)

Native to: California, Oregon, Washington

Function & Care

erosion controlwildlife benefit

Establishment & Care

Establishment
easy
Maintenance
low
Propagation
division