Native to woodlands of the Pacific Northwest, this is a large and striking specimen fern, growing best in regions with similar cool summer conditions. Plants form a clump of long, tapering dark-green fronds, with a thick and leathery texture. Great for massing, in the rock garden or containers. One of the largest Polystichums in cultivation. Evergreen. Trim off dead fronds in early spring before new growth begins. May be divided in spring, if desired. Played an important role in the lives of indigenous people medicinally for boils, tonsillitis, sores, as a dandruff cure and for household uses such as lining baking pits and for making mattresses.