Western Sword Fern

About this plant

Polystichum Munitum, commonly known as the Western Sword Fern, is a true PNW classic, celebrated for its robust, leathery fronds that form elegant, upright clumps. This adaptable perennial brings a touch of ancient woodland charm to your landscape, maintaining its vibrant green color even through the winter months. Perfect for creating a lush, verdant understory in shaded beds, alongside streams, or in woodland gardens, the Western Sword Fern also excels in naturalized settings. Its architectural form and reliable performance make it an indispensable choice for both contemporary and traditional designs. Hardy and low-maintenance, it's an excellent choice for adding enduring structure and an evergreen presence to those difficult-to-fill shady spots.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Generally low maintenance, the Western Sword Fern thrives with consistent moisture and rich, well-draining soil. Remove old or damaged fronds in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. No significant pruning is required beyond this. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if desired.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.