Polystichum munitum, the Western Swordfern, is native to the western states of the USA and Canada with disparate isolated populations in South Dakota and the Mexican Island of Guadalupe. A large impressive fern it is capable of producing fronds that will grow nearly 2 metres in height and form a large clump just as wide. It has attractive dark green pinnate foliage with each pinnae arranged alternately on the axis.

Extremely hardy, Polystichum munitum is tolerant of a wide range of conditions but prefers a moist shady aspect with a humus-rich, acidic and friable soil.

A desirable hardy evergreen fern with a large robust habit, this is the perfect fern to make a strong statement in the jungle understory.