About this Species
Sword Fern
The sword fern, Polystichum munitum, is am evergreen fern native to western North America. This fern grows in the understory of coniferous forests in BC, and is adapted to thrive in moist soil and cool temperatures. The individual fronds live for up to 2 years. The sword fern is named because the lobes of the pinna (small leaves within the frond) resemble the hilt of a sword. This plant was used by the Coast Salish peoples as a topical pain reliever.
