Accession Count: 25
Common Name:
sword fern
Family Name:
Dryopteridaceae
Botanical Name:
Polystichum munitum
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
Polystichum munitum is an evergreen, perennial fern (1,2,3,5) that grows up to five feet tall with equal spread (1,3,5). Fronds are 2 to 3 feet long each and pinnately compound (3). Small spores grow year yound on the underside (1,3).
Compound:
Pol mun
Geographic Origin:
North America
Ecozone Origin:
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
Cultivation Notes:
A low-maintenance plant, Polystichum munitum tolerates a wide range of soil types (1) and temperatures, and is hardy to at least 0 F (3). This plant should be watered weekly when growing and during summer heat, but less frequently when established (3) as long as the soil remains moist (2,5). Sword ferns prefer to grow in the shade, and will not tolerate full sun (2,3).
Ethnobotany:
The roots of the sword fern can be boiled and eaten. Some Native American tribes have used the leaves in infusions medicinally to treat sore throats, boils, and sores (2).
Height:
0 - 5 feet
Width:
0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Flower Season:
Color:
Green
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
