PlantWerkz: Ostrich Fern - Matteuccia Struthiopteris

Ostrich Fern

Common name: Ostrich Fern
Scientific name : Matteuccia Struthiopteris
Height: 1-1.5 m
Growth Rate: Medium to Fast
Span: 0.5 m
Sun Tolerance: Full Sun
ABP Index: 2.5 (3.0 Aesthetics, 2.0 Solidarity)

The Ostrich Fern is named appropriately with the looks of a ruffled ostrich butt that is angry and ready to charge at you. While most ferns leaves spread sideways, the ostrich fern leaves are positioned upwards, giving it that unique look.

Whether you have a secluded pond, sunny rock wall or a serene woodland setting, you can find an assortment of ferns to add beauty to any spot in the garden. Most ferns do well in part shade or dappled sunlight, but there are many which will do well with quite a bit of sun, provided they get enough water. Shade loving ferns appreciate an organic, evenly moist, well drained soil. If your soil is heavy on the clay or sandy side you can add compost or other organic matter to help balance it out. (If you use manure, be sure it is well rotted or aged.) Ferns require minimal maintenance throughout the year. Once in the garden, ferns in general do not require additional fertilizer.

Ostrich Fern Stems

Ostrich Fern Fiddle-Heads

Ostrich Fern Spores

The edible shoots of the Ostrich Fern are named Fiddleheads.

Video on ostrich fern - matteuccia struthiopteris:

For more information:
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4 comments:

poppilinnstudiosFebruary 21, 2013 at 1:03 AM
These would be perfect in my yard. I may plant some this spring. And, thanks for stopping by!
Plant NurseryAugust 4, 2013 at 3:22 AM
Ostrich ferns resembles the fiddle head ferns also. Folks in France eat these like we eat bread.
UnknownAugust 9, 2013 at 9:07 AM
The Tennessee Ostich Glade Fern is lovely. They grow native in Tennessee and have long green fronds. They are a Summer blooming fern and need plenty of water for maximum beauty.
http://www.trees-plants.com
SusanAugust 11, 2013 at 9:48 AM
Dryopteridaceae – Wood Fern family

Identifying characteristics:
Growth Type:
Perennial herbaceous plants.
Height:
Up to 6 feet tall, although in the great lakes region, 3 - 4 ft is the norm.
Leaves:
The leaves grow in large feather like fronds. Unlike Pasture Brake, Ostrich Fern fronds do not branch, and arise from a central point. They look as though they might be growing from a vase.
Stem/Trunk:
Stem runs the entire length of the frond. If you look at the plant, it