Matteuccia struthiopteris (Ostrich Fern)

One of the most dramatic native ferns available, ostrich fern combines confirmed deer resistance with genuine soil-stabilizing value along shady stream banks - its dense, colony-forming growth is even noted to resist destruction by floodwaters.

Species Overview

Matteuccia struthiopteris is a deciduous fern native to moist woodlands and riparian areas in North America. It grows 3 to 6 feet tall (occasionally more), forming graceful, vase-shaped clumps of finely dissected fronds that resemble ostrich plumes. Distinctive "fiddleheads" emerge in spring, and this species is deer-resistant and spreads slowly by rhizomes.

Application

• Riparian and streambank restoration - soil-stabilizing, flood-resistant colonies
• Shade garden and woodland understory plantings
• Deer-pressured sites
• Naturalized foundation plantings for northern exposures

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Part Shade to Full Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Rich, consistently moist soils; tolerant of wet feet and heavy clay
• Plant Type: Fern
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Bronze - fertile fronds retain a bronze color well into winter
• Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
• Native Range: Northeastern North America and across Canada
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - A moist-to-wet woodland fern often found in floodplain forests; tolerates periodically wet soil.
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
• Growth Habit: Spreading - rhizomatous, forms colonies
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Spreads by underground rhizomes to form dense colonies; give it room, as it will spread aggressively under good conditions.