This perennial fern has a short erect brown rhizome that is covered in large scales and forms a clump. It has long, dark green divided sword-shaped fronds that spread radially from the base and the erect fertile fronds appear during late summer.

Hardiness zones 5 to 9 

Polystichum munitum is naturally found widespread along the western coast of North America from south-east Alaska to southern California. It is also found inland at northern Idaho and western Montana growing in the understory of coniferous forests along stream banks from sea level to an altitude of 1,600m (5,500 ft).

It prefers a well-drained, humus rich stony soil that is tending acidic in a shaded to dappled light protected position and prefers cooler weather, though it will tolerate occasional dry periods. It is  mild drought and frosts tolerant.

The Western Sword Fern is grown for its foliage and is planted in woodland gardens, as understory amongst trees or around water features. It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions, establishing in 2-3 years and is moderately long lived. It is also suitable for shaded cool rockeries or protected planter boxes and used in commercial landscapes or public gardens. ID 3415

Polystichum (POH-lee-STEE-kum) munitum (mew-NEE-tum)

Dryopteridaceae (DRY-op-TER-ee-DAY-see-ee)