Ostrich Fern

Ostrich Fern -Matteuccia Struthiopteris

Ostrich Ferns have arching fronds that stand 3-6 feet in height at maturity. They have vibrant green leathery foliage that almost looks tropical, but they are a native fern. These ferns improve the composition of the soil while cleaning the air, with their fronds absorbing airborne toxins. They are aesthetically pleasing as well as environmentally friendly. They do not require insecticides, herbicides, or even fertilizers.

This native fern is attractive and dimorphic, and gardeners use it all year round to beautify their patches in shaded areas. In its nonfertile state, the plant grows to a height of 6 feet, and its gorgeous fronds resemble ostrich plumes, hence the plant's name. 

The Different Phases of the Ostrich Fern Plants 

 Spring arrives with fiddlehead fronds curling up on the ends, looking exotic and elegant in any high-moisture woodland garden.

They're hardy, too, so you can plant them nearly anywhere to beautify a particular place. Although they aren't green and sweeping in the winter, they're still attractive as they survive the cold and snow while the perennials snooze until spring.

Ostrich Fern Plants: An Environmental Friend

Ferns are bio-indicators, which is highly important to Tammy Sons, founder of TN Nursery. Tammy refuses to sell anything that does not benefit the environment, be aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and be low-maintenance.

The Giant Ostrich Fern's extensive root system is a great soil stabilizer. The other plants in the garden will benefit because the fern's roots prevent erosion and nutrient loss in the soil. Second, they are a boon to various garden-dwelling wildlife.

Native Ferns Improve the Composition of the Soil

The Ostrich fern has dense roots, is a natural soil stabilizer, and is very popular for soil erosion and control. It also protects and it's foliage offers shelter for small insects, amphibians, and ground-nesting birds, while the spring fiddleheads provide an early food source for certain foraging animals.

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How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Fern Rhizomes

Bare root fern rhizomes are easy to plant and bring lush, woodland beauty to shaded or partially shaded areas. To begin, soak the rhizomes in water for 1–2 hours before planting to help rehydrate them. Choose a planting site with rich, well-draining soil high in organic matter. Ferns thrive in moisture-retentive soil, so amending with compost or leaf mold is ideal.

Dig a shallow hole wide enough to spread the rhizome out horizontally, and place it just below the soil surface with the growing tips (or “eyes”) facing upward. Cover lightly with soil, press gently, and water thoroughly. Keep the soil evenly moist—never dry or soggy—while the fern establishes.

Mulch with leaf litter or pine needles to conserve moisture and mimic the fern’s natural habitat. Avoid direct sunlight, as most native ferns prefer cool, shaded conditions. With patience and proper care, the rhizomes will send up new fronds and form a graceful, low-maintenance colony that returns year after year.

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