Polystichum munitum

sword fern

• Position: full or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Lustrous, dark green fronds up to 90cm (36in) long arranged in a distinctive shuttlecock-like shape. This evergreen fern is aptly named since the substantial fronds resemble large swords. Perfect for providing all year foliage interest for a mixed border in full or partial shade, it performs best in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
  
  
• Garden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole.