Sword FernPolystichum munitumLacy Bird Encyclopedia
foliage · easy · budget
Sword Fern
Polystichum munitum · aka western sword fern
Sword fern produces long, upright fronds of neatly ranked, deep-green leaflets on sturdy stems. Wild-harvested in the Pacific Northwest, it is a reliable, inexpensive cut green with a fresh, natural character. Florists use its bold, tapering blades to build structure, add length and frame bouquets and arrangements. Hardier than many ferns, it holds its colour and form well through a design's life.
At a glance
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Western North America |
| Peak season | June, July, August |
| Availability | January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December |
| Stem length | 30–60 cm |
| Vase life | 7–14 days |
| Colors | green |
| Price tier | budget |
Conditioning
Recut the stem ends and remove the lower leaflets before a deep drink of cool water. Submerging the fronds briefly helps them firm up and hydrate fully. Keep them cold and out of direct sun to preserve the rich green. Recut and refresh the water to maintain freshness.
Care in the vase
- •Recut stems before conditioning
- •Strip lower leaflets
- •Give a deep cool drink
- •Keep out of direct sun
- •Store cold to hold colour
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismshelter, sincerity, natural strength, renewal
Occasionswedding, everyday, rustic arrangements, garden-style, installation, corporate
Substitutesleatherleaf fern, asparagus fern, dicranopteris
foliagegreenerytexturalrusticgarden-styleyear-roundlong-lasting
