MATTEUCIA STRUTHIOPTERIS #1

Ostrich Fern

Matteuccia struthiopteris

Height: 24 inches

Spacing: 3 feet

Sunlight: full sun partial shade full shade

Hardiness Zone: 1b

Description:

The most common and recognizable of the ferns, this is a very tough and hardy plant, featuring tall lacy fronds all season long; spreads aggressively and may require some control; grows best in shade with rich, moist soil; great for textural effect

Ornamental Features

Ostrich Fern is primarily valued in the garden for its ornamental upright and spreading habit of growth. Its large fragrant ferny compound leaves remain light green in colour throughout the season.

Landscape Attributes

Ostrich Fern is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.

This is a high maintenance plant that will require regular care and upkeep, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

Invasive
Ostrich Fern is recommended for the following landscape applications;

Mass Planting
General Garden Use
Groundcover
Naturalizing And Woodland Gardens