Western sword fern forms a substantial clump of arching, dark green fronds, giving shaded borders structure that persists in milder winters.
- Height
- 91–122 cm / 3–4 ft
- Spread
- 60–122 cm / 2–4 ft
- Light
- Shade / Partial shade
- Soil moisture
- Moist, well-drained
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Maintenance
- Low
- USDA zones
- 5a–9b
Planting
Use partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soil, preferably acidic to slightly acidic. Allow enough room for the mature clump in a woodland border or shaded container.
Care
Retain ageing fronds over winter to shelter emerging growth. Divide in early spring if needed, and protect the crown from excessive winter wetness while maintaining moisture during dry weather.
Before planting: Full sun can scorch the fronds.
Planting Western sword fern?
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Sources & photo credit
Plant reference: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Content checked . Flowering seasons vary with local climate; USDA zones describe winter cold tolerance.
- Western sword fern: Kurt Stüber · CC BY-SA 3.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Christmas fern: Photo by Cranbrook Science · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Korean rock fern: Andrey Zarkikh · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.
- Soft shield fern: Ashley Basil · CC BY 2.0. Resized, converted to WebP and cropped for display.