Taxonomy

Division:

Pteridophyta | - Ferns

Family:

Polypodiaceae

Genus:

Polystichum

Species:

Polystichum muricatum

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:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist