Matteuccia (mah-TOO-key-uh) Common Name:  Ostrich fern Light:  - Part shade to full shade Soil:  Humus-rich, moist Moisture:  Consistently moist for best growth Zones:  4 - 8 -*-

Matteuccia struthiopteris

Matteuccia Description and Cultural Information

Matteuccia struthiopteris, ostrich fern. 3 - 5'. Ostrich ferns have large, dark green fronds with a vase shaped growth. Fertile fronds are dark brownish-black and arise 6 - 12" in the center of the clump around midsummer, turning brown by fall. Plants are aggressive spreaders, to say the least, but are excellent when naturalized in just the right spot.

How to Grow:  Ostrich ferns are native to marshy areas, little islands, and deltas of shallow streams and creeks. Plant them in humus-rich, moist soil in part to full shade. Plants will tolerate some sun, but will need much more moisture to keep them looking good into late summer. Plants grow from dense, underground runners that spread out in every direction. Crowns can be dug up and replanted in the spring and early summer, planting them right at the level of the soil. Avoid high wind areas as the tall fronds may break or brown from too much drying.

Landscape uses:  Ostrich ferns make excellent background plants in the shade garden. Plant them with hostas and other tough perennials and shrubs, thinning plants out as necessary. If you don't want them to take over a garden, restrict them to large areas or spots where their spreading can be controlled.