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Polystichum imbricans (D.C. Eat.) D.H. Wagner

Dwarf western sword fern, Narrow-leaf sword fern, Narrowleaf swordfern

Dryopteridaceae (Wood Indies-Almond Family)

Synonyms: Polystichum imbricans ssp. imbricans, Polystichum munitum var. imbricans

USDA Symbol: POIM

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

A smaller, more compact version of P. munitum, but otherwise very similar. The large clumps of dark evergreen fronds are 1-2 ft. tall. The fronds are once-divided, with toothed pinnae.

 

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Plant Characteristics

Duration: Perennial
Habit: Herb , Fern
Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Fruit:
Size Class: 1-3 ft.

Bloom Information

Bloom Color: Not Applicable
Bloom Notes: Not a flowering plant. Reproduces by spores.

Distribution

USA: CA , OR , WA
Native Distribution: Cascade/Sierran axis from c. WA to s. CA, Klamath region & Olympic Mts.
Native Habitat: Dry, rocky, thin conifer woods or open places
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N)

Growing Conditions

Light Requirement: Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Dry
Soil Description: Dry, rocky soils.
Conditions Comments: Deer proof. Transplants well and lends a look of lushness to the woodland garden. Looks best planted in groups or drifts.

Propagation

Description: Spores.
Seed Collection: Not Available
Seed Treatment: Not Available
Commercially Avail: yes

Recommended Species Lists

Find native plant species by state. Each list contains commercially available species suitable for gardens and planned landscapes. Once you have selected a collection, you can browse the collection or search within it using the combination search.

View Recommended Species page

Additional resources

USDA: Find Polystichum imbricans in USDA Plants
FNA: Find Polystichum imbricans in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Polystichum imbricans

Metadata

Record Modified: 2007-01-01
Research By: TWC Staff

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