Introduce the robust Western Sword Fern - Polystichum Munitum to your garden for a touch of evergreen elegance
Native to the moist woodland environments of North America, this fern is celebrated for its resilience and classic beauty. With its dense, upright clumps of dark green fronds that can reach up to 4 feet in length, the Western Sword Fern is a staple in any shade garden.
Perfect for those looking to enhance their garden's year-round appeal, this fern is especially suited to cooler climates found in USDA zones 5-8. It thrives under the canopy of larger trees, making it an excellent choice for understory plantings and shaded landscape areas. Not only does it require minimal care once established, but it also provides excellent ground cover and erosion control.
Specifications for Western Sword Fern (Polystichum Munitum):
Season: Evergreen
USDA Zones: 5-8
Height: Up to 4 feet
Environment: Prefers shade
Soil Type: Rich, well-draining; adaptable to clay and sandy soils
Deer Resistant: Yes
Latin Name: Polystichum munitum
Temperature: Cool climates
Germ Time: Several months for spores
Light: Indirect or shaded
Depth: Sow spores on surface
Sowing Rate: Sparse
Moisture: Consistently moist
Plant Spacing: 24 to 36 inches apart
Whether you’re an experienced fern enthusiast or a beginner looking to add reliable greenery to your garden, the Western Sword Fern is an ideal choice. Its low maintenance and striking appearance make it a valuable addition to any outdoor space, providing lush, vibrant greenery throughout the seasons.
I do not have an indoor garden so I am waiting until spring to plant. I will try planting closer to Feb or March in small pods watering with spray bottle, and slowly introduce the plants to outdoor conditions.