Ostrich Fern

Easily one of the most beautiful Ferns for wet shade, the Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is a must-have addition! Unfurling into a beautiful vase-shaped leaf, the showy, arching fronds are reminiscent of Ostrich tail feathers. The plumes of lustrous, very large, dark emerald add lushness to those corners of the yard that are shaded and damp.

The finely dissected leaves also bring delicate texture to the landscape. Ostrich Fern settles nicely in a woodland setting, under the dense shade of large trees. No wonder this plant won the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society!

These are hardy natives of North America, brushing off early spring freezes like a champ. Interestingly, we're told by friends in Vermont that the young fiddleheads are delicious sautéed in a bit of oil, with a taste like Asparagus. It's even the state vegetable in Vermont!

Planting and Application:

You know that place, where nothing except mosses seems to grow? Those are perfect for Ferns! Ostrich Ferns graceful clumps spread and colonize an area. Perfect for a woodland setting, under the dense shade of large trees and evergreens, and in the modern or contemporary landscape too! It really sings when planted in masses.

Wonderful on the patio and in containers, Ostrich Fern shines! These plumes form dense colonies in the full shade, bringing life and greenery to dreary spots. Visually, planting Ostrich Ferns can turn a dreary eyesore into a triumph of woodland delight! Forming a verdant backdrop for shade-loving Hosta or Bleeding Hearts.

• Lustrous Tall Vase Shape
• Green Finely Dissected Foliage
• Cute Fiddle-Heads
• Loves Wet, Boggy, Shady Areas
• En Masse, Planters, Rain-Gardens, Ponds & Shade-Gardens

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Ostrich Fern is happiest in a site that is moist, cool and shady. It handles a bit more sun the closer it is to a stream, pond or bog, and handles wet feet like a duck. Slower to get established, Ostrich Fern will make root development a top priority. Low maintenance once settled, a once-a-year clean-up is all that is needed in late winter or early spring before they start to grow.

• Part to Full Shade
• Moist to Wet Soil
• Clean/Prune Late Winter/Early Spring
• Loves Cool Humid Sites
• Deer Resistant

Turn those dreary, waste areas into landscaping with fresh, green 'wow' factor with the addition of Ostrich Fern! Fast-growing, beautiful, shade-loving plantings, then order your own from Nature Hills Nursery today!