POLYSTICHUM. Sword fern, holly fern. A large genus of ferns, found on every continent and from the tropics to snowy peaks. Those commonly cultivated here are tough, hardy plants with many ornamental features. The following are all of substantial size, with bold evergreen fronds. These may be once to three times divided, with a distinctive “hilt”—a longer leaflet at the base of each major division from the main stalk. These are useful plants for their size as well as for their beauty, for they can attractively fill large “dead” spaces in shady parts of the garden. They also make impressive specimens for large tubs and other containers. They are best in light to medium shade, with well drained, preferably acid soil and moderate watering (though they should not go completely dry). The following are hardy to 10^oF. or less.

munitum. Western sword fern. A boldly textured native, eventually 4’ or more in height and breadth. It has long, narrow once-divided fronds which are quite leathery in texture, dark green in color. Planted in the shade garden, it needs very little attention and will even survive periods of drought. Hardy to 0^oF. or below.