Western Sword or Giant-Holly fern
Polystichum munitum (POLYPODIACEAE)
Planting and Growing Western Sword Fern
You’ll find everything you need to know to plant and grow western sword or giant-holly fern in the accompanying table’s tabs:
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- Fronds and spores of western sword or giant-holly fern
- Growing conditions for western sword or giant-holly fern
- When and where to plant western sword or giant-holly fern
- How to plant western sword or giant-holly fern
- How to shape, prune and control growth of western sword or giant-holly fern
- Watering, fertilizing, and care of western sword or giant-holly fern
- Landscape uses of western sword or giant-holly fern
- Pest and disease control for western sword or giant-holly fern
Growing Western Sword Fern
Many cultivars of slow-growing, erect, mounding, rhizomatous, evergreen ferns, 3–4 ft. (90–120 cm) tall and wide, with shiny, leathery, yellow green becoming deep green, lance-shaped, divided fronds, to 42 in. (1.1 m) long, with blade-shaped, sharply cut, toothed, opposite leaflets, to 5 in. (13 cm) long, on rough, brown, hairy and fibrous stems.
Imbricate sword fern, Polystichum munitum var. imbricans, is a closely related variety with similar care needs.
See also: Shield Fern, Polystichum species.
Western Sword Fern Planting and Care Guide
Best Climates
U.S.D.A. Plant Hardiness Zones 4–9. Hardy.
Soil Type and Fertility
Moist, well-drained, sandy humus. Fertility: Rich. 6.0–7.0 pH.
Where and How to Plant
Partial to full shade. Space 18–24 in. (45–60 cm) apart.
Proper Care
Easy. Keep evenly moist; drought tolerant when established. Fertilize every 2 months. Deadhead old, broken fronds. Propagate by division, spores.
About This Species
Good choice for accents, hanging baskets, beds, borders, containers, ground covers in natural, shade, woodland gardens. Pest and disease resistant.