Family : Dryopteridaceae.

Western sword fern.

Tough and satiny fronds, pinnate, medium green, linear-lanceolate. The pinnae are narrow, falcate and auricled. The fronds are arranged in an erect crown in spring and then more spreading. The young croziers are cloaked with silver white scales. The unfurling of the fronds is stunning. This species grows in acidic or alkaline soils, humusy, drained, in the shade; it is drought tolerant and suitable under conifers. Height and width : 80cm. Hardiness : -20°C.