Sword Fern, Polystichum munitum

Evergreen fern. Ht. 2’-3’. Part sun/full shade. Provides winter protection for birds.

Notes: Transplants well, easy to establish. Looks best planted in groups or drifts in the woodland or rhodie garden. Spores spread around the garden for new plants. Our only fern, which can handle more sun/more dryness than all others. With age, can reach heights of 5’. Leaf looks like a sword, hence the name.   https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/techniques/pacific-nw-native-plants-plant-community

It is recommended that this species be planted in loamy, loose soil that gets adequate moisture during the year, but does not get buried in wet clay during the winter.  Although the crowns should be left just at the top of the soil, the roots need to be buried so the plant can spread out.  In order to protect the crown from snow and ice, mulch such as bark chips (not small and matted) or shredded leaves.  If the mulch "sticks together", it prevents moisture from penetrating the top soil and reaching the roots.  I hope this is helpful.  Good luck!