Swordfern
Macrothelypteris torresiana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Swordfern (Macrothelypteris torresiana) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
N/A
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaSwordfern is a large, tropical-looking fern with broad, deeply divided fronds that create a lush, dramatic appearance in shaded areas. This evergreen perennial maintains its attractive foliage year-round and thrives in humid environments with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Swordfern 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.
- Non-native species may be prohibited
- Large size can appear overgrown
- Tropical appearance may seem out of place in traditional landscapes
Wildlife value
While ferns don't produce flowers for pollinators, this species provides valuable habitat and cover for small wildlife, birds, and beneficial insects that shelter among its dense fronds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Swordfern need?
- Swordfern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Is Swordfern HOA-friendly?
- Swordfern takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow Swordfern? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Planning a bed around it? Start a free plan with this plant
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz