Bring bold, elegant greenery to your garden with Matteuccia struthiopteris, commonly known as Ostrich Fern. This stunning deciduous fern features tall, arching fronds that resemble ostrich plumes, creating a lush, tropical appearance in shaded or partially shaded spaces. Perfect for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as a dramatic groundcover, Ostrich Fern thrives in moist, well-drained soils and spreads quickly via underground rhizomes. Its vibrant green fronds add texture and movement to the garden, while its fiddleheads, also known as “crosiers,” are edible when harvested young, making it both ornamental and functional.

Why Choose Ostrich Fern?

• Striking Foliage: Tall, feathery fronds add height, texture, and a tropical feel to shaded gardens.
• Spreads Quickly: Forms dense colonies, providing lush groundcover in moist, shaded areas.
• Edible Fiddleheads: Early spring shoots are prized for their unique taste and culinary uses.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives in a variety of moist soils and requires minimal care once established.

Cultivation Tips

• Sunlight Needs: Prefers partial to full shade but tolerates morning sun if the soil remains consistently moist.
• Soil Preferences: Thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soils; tolerates periodic flooding and thrives near water features.
• Watering Requirements: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, to support vigorous growth.
• Spacing: Plant 24-36 inches apart to allow for its spreading habit and to create a dense, naturalized look.

Design Ideas for Your Garden

Ostrich Fern is ideal for adding height and texture to woodland gardens, shaded borders, or areas near water features. Use it to naturalize moist spaces like streambanks or rain gardens, where its spreading habit helps stabilize soil. Pair it with other shade-loving plants like Hostas, Astilbes, or Foamflowers for a layered, dynamic planting. Its bold fronds also create a striking contrast against finer-textured plants, making it a dramatic focal point in shaded landscapes.

Ecological Benefits

Matteuccia struthiopteris improves garden ecosystems by stabilizing soil in wet areas, reducing erosion, and providing cover for small wildlife. Its dense growth helps suppress weeds, while its edible fiddleheads offer a sustainable, seasonal food source.

Enhance your garden with the bold beauty and ecological value of Matteuccia struthiopteris – Ostrich Fern. This resilient, fast-growing fern brings texture, lush greenery, and multi-functional appeal to your landscape.