Polystichum Munitum: A Guide to its Origin, Range, and Cultivars

Written By Chris Welch

Polystichum munitum, also known as the Western Sword Fern or Giant Western Sword Fern, is a highly sought-after plant in horticulture. Its unique growth habit, foliage, and disease resistance make it a popular choice for landscaping. Its hardiness in a wide range of zones makes it a versatile option for gardeners across the country. This guide will explore the origin and range of Polystichum munitum, its growth habit, foliage, and disease resistance. We will also look at some of the most popular cultivars and the individuals responsible for introducing them to the trade and suggest other similar plants in characteristics, size, and habit.

Growth Habit

Polystichum munitum is an evergreen fern that typically reaches 2-4 ft. tall and wide (60-120 cm). It has a vase-shaped growth habit, with the fronds arising from a central crown. The fronds are dark green and glossy and held upright, giving the plant a majestic appearance.

Foliage

The foliage of Polystichum munitum is evergreen, arranged in a shuttlecock-like rosette, and the fronds are triangular. The fronds are distinctive, with a leathery texture and a slightly curved shape. The fronds are dark green in color, glossy, and typically reach a length of 1-1.5m (3-5ft).

Flowers/Seeds/Fruits/Cones

Polystichum munitum does not produce flowers, seeds, fruits, or cones. It reproduces by spores, which are produced on the undersides of the fronds.

Native Range

Polystichum munitum is native to the western United States, primarily in California, Oregon, and Washington. It is typically found in moist, shady environments along streambanks and coniferous forests.

Hardiness Zones

Polystichum munitum is hardy in zones 5-8. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial to full shade. It is tolerant of many soil types, including clay and sandy soils.

Landscape Use

Polystichum munitum is an excellent choice for landscaping, as it is easy to care for and has a graceful, vase-shaped habit. It is also a superb naturalization plant, as it can tolerate various soil types and moisture levels. It is also a great plant for use in woodland gardens and along stream banks.

Disease Resistance

Polystichum munitum is generally disease-resistant but can be susceptible to fungal infections if grown in poorly-drained soils.

Cultivars and Introducers

There are several cultivars of Polystichum munitum that are popular in the horticulture trade, including:

  • Divisilobum: A cultivar with divided fronds, introduced by the Pacific Bulb Society

  • Munitum Compactum: A compact cultivar introduced by the Pacific Bulb Society

  • Plumosum Densum: A cultivar with feathery fronds, introduced by the Pacific Bulb Society

Similar Plants

Other plants that are similar in characteristics, size, and habit to Polystichum munitum include:

  • Polystichum setiferum: Also known as the Soft Shield Fern, this fern has a similar growth habit and foliage to Polystichum munitum but is smaller in size and more delicate in appearance.

  • Dryopteris filix-mas: Also known as the Male Fern, this fern has a similar growth habit and foliage to Polystichum munitum but is typically a brighter green.

  • Athyrium niponicum: Also known as the Japanese Painted Fern, this fern has a similar growth habit and foliage to Polystichum munitum but has more delicate and finely-cut fronds.

In conclusion, Polystichum munitum is a magnificent and versatile fern native to the western United States. It has a majestic growth habit, glossy evergreen foliage, and disease resistance, making it an ideal choice for landscaping, naturalizing, and woodland gardens. With its wide range of cultivars, this fern can be used to add beauty to any garden. Polystichum setiferum, Dryopteris filix-mas, and Athyrium niponicum are also great alternatives to Polystichum munitum but are smaller in size, delicate, and have different leaf textures.

If you're interested in adding Polystichum munitum to your garden, check with your local nursery to see which cultivars are available. And as always, be sure to research any plant's specific light and moisture requirements before adding it to your garden.

References:

Chris Welch
Previous

The Giant Sequoia: A Guide to Sequoiadendron giganteum
Next

The Beauty of the Cornus Kousa Chinensis: A Plant Profile