Common Sword Fern
Polystichum munitum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Polystichum munitum is an evergreen fern native to the Pacific Northwest and northern Rocky Mountains. This sword fern thrives in shaded to partially sunny locations with consistent moisture.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Common Sword Fern as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, ID, MT, OR and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common sword fern is a large evergreen fern with distinctive sword-shaped fronds that form dense, upright clumps. This native species thrives in shaded, moist conditions and maintains its deep green color year-round. It provides excellent texture and structure in woodland gardens and shady borders.
Growing Common Sword Fern
Grow Common Sword Fern in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Sword Fern takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Large size can appear overgrown without regular maintenance
Wildlife value
As a fern, it does not produce flowers or attract pollinators directly. However, it provides cover and nesting habitat for small birds and beneficial insects in shaded garden areas.
Common questions
- Where does Polystichum munitum naturally grow?
- Common Sword Fern is native to western North America, found from California north to Alaska and east to Montana and South Dakota.
- What growing conditions does sword fern prefer?
- Polystichum munitum grows best in partial shade to full shade with medium to high moisture levels. It tolerates some morning sun but prefers protection from hot afternoon light.
- Does Common Sword Fern produce flowers?
- No, Polystichum munitum is a fern that reproduces by spores rather than flowers. It produces spores on the undersides of its fronds throughout the growing season.
- How large does sword fern grow?
- Common Sword Fern typically reaches 2-4 feet tall and wide, though mature specimens in ideal conditions can grow up to 6 feet tall with fronds spreading 3-5 feet across.
- Is Common Sword Fern toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Common Sword Fern as toxic to livestock.
- Is Common Sword Fern HOA-friendly?
- Common Sword Fern takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Common Sword Fern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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