Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is a deciduous temperate fern that is native to North America. It is a fast-growing clump-forming plant that typically grows 3-6’ tall and as wide. The fronds are bi- or tripinnate and resemble the feathers of an ostrich. The fertile fronds are shorter than the sterile fronds and have spore-bearing structures (sori) on the undersides of the leaflets. Ostrich fern is found growing in moist woods along streams and in wetland areas.
When planting ostrich fern it is important to choose a location that has moist well-drained soil and partial to full shade. This fern does not tolerate full sun or dry soils. It can be propagated by division of the root ball or by spores.
Ostrich fern makes an excellent addition to the shade garden where it provides a bold textural contrast. It is particularly effective when planted in mass. It also makes an excellent container plant. Ostrich fern can be aggressive and may need to be controlled in some areas.
Some potential companion plants for ostrich fern include:
• Bleeding heart (Dicentra spp.)
• Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
• Coralbells (Heuchera spp.)
• Hosta (Hosta spp.)
• Jacob’s ladder (Polemonium spp.)
• Maidenhair fern (Adiantum spp.)
• Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum spp.)
• Trillium (Trillium spp.)
• Wood anemone (Anemone quinquefolia)
What soil pH do ostrich ferns prefer?
Ostrich ferns prefer a soil pH between 5.
5 and 6.
5.
What are the ideal growing conditions for ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns prefer moist humus-rich well-drained soils in partial to full shade.
What is the mature height of ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns can grow up to 6 feet tall.
What is the mature width of ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns can spread up to 5 feet wide.
When do ostrich ferns produce spores?
Ostrich ferns produce spores in the spring.
How do you propagate ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
What pests or diseases are common with ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns are generally pest and disease free.
What is the best way to water ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns prefer consistent moisture and should be watered regularly especially during dry periods.
What is the best way to fertilize ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns benefit from a yearly application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Should ostrich ferns be pruned?
Ostrich ferns do not require pruning but can be trimmed back after they go dormant in the fall.
What is the USDA hardiness zone for ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns are hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
What is the life span of ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns are perennial plants with a life span of 10-20 years.
What animal is the ostrich fern named after?
The ostrich fern is named after the ostrich because of its large plume-like fronds.
Can ostrich ferns be used as food?
The young fiddleheads of the ostrich fern can be eaten cooked or raw.
What does the ostrich fern look like?
The ostrich fern has tall arching fronds that can grow up to 6 feet tall.
The fronds are divided into many small leaflets that give the plant a feathery appearance.
