Wildlife value of Sword Fern — an unexpected bonus

I planted Sword Fern primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. prehistoric elegance with delicate layered fronds seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a shaded north-facing border under trees which allows me to watch the activity up close. full lush canopy through summer is the most active period for wildlife visits. removing dead fronds cleanly at the base in spring is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. root bound stunting in pots left too long without repotting is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.