Western Sword Fern

The Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum) is a common and well-known evergreen fern native to this area. Sword ferns are found in the wild and in gardens, growing most abundantly in undisturbed, old-growth forests. Western sword ferns are used for prevention of hillside erosion and soil compaction. The Ohlone used these ferns as lining in a cooking pit, between stacking objects, covering floors and beds, and as food. It was also part of a traditional game known as pala-pala, as well as used in rituals.