Taxonomy

Division:

Pteridophyta | - Ferns

Family:

Polypodiaceae

Genus:

Polystichum

Species:

Polystichum lonchitis

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

2-3 ft

Light Requirements:

Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Colors:

Not Applicable

Native Range

United States: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Ontario, Quebec, Yukon

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

prefers calcareous substrates in natural habitats

Germination Information