Interesting Facts:

• From the Greek "nephros" (kidney) and "lepis" (scale), referring to the shape of the spore cases on the underside of fronds. Common cultivars are 'Bostoniensis', 'Compacta' and 'Dallas'. The latter two are smaller and therefore are often preferred for use as house plants.
• The common name sword fern also refers to Polystichum munitum which has wider, darker leaves up to 24 inches long
• Members of this family do not produce flowers as they reproduce by spores. Spores are contained in sori or "fruit dots" and appear as dark spots on the lower surface of mature leaves called fronds.
• As with all true ferns, runners can be formed that can be left to grow or cut off. If they come in contact with moist soil, they can root and develop into another plant.