Sword Fern

Polystichum munitum

Western sword fern is one of the most common and resilient ferns of Pacific Northwest forests, thriving in the shady understory from coastal rainforests to mixed conifer woodlands. An evergreen species, it forms large arching clumps of dark green, leathery fronds that can reach up to 4 feet long. Its year-round foliage provides critical ground cover, reducing soil erosion and maintaining forest floor moisture while also offering habitat for small animals and invertebrates. Highly tolerant of variable shade and soil conditions, sword fern is a key structural and ecological component of western forest ecosystems and is widely used in native landscaping and restoration.