Fiddlehead Fern
Thrives in Zones 3-8
Thrives in shaded, moist areas
Unique, attractive, spiral-shaped fronds
Enhances natural woodland aesthetics
Ships in
7-10 Days Fiddlehead Ferns - Matteuccia Struthiopteris
The Fiddlehead Fern, also known as Ostrich Fern, is a woodland beauty with fronds resembling the plumage of an ostrich. This fern is native to North America and is naturally found in shaded, moist habitats such as stream and river banks
This fern is large, growing up to 6 ft tall and around 4 ft across, and easily naturalizes, forming colonies of lush, feathery fronds. The sterile fronds emerge upward from the rhizome and gently arch outward from the base, while the fertile brown fronds develop erect from the center of the plant. This fern is deciduous, with fronds beginning to die back after the first frost in autumn. However, the fertile fronds remain throughout the winter, adding a lovely brown tone to the landscape
Plant Details - Fiddlehead Fern Plants
Family: Onocleaceae
Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Light Requirement: Partial shade to full shade
Water Needs: Moderate to high
Height: 3 - 6 ft
Spread: 2 - 4 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: NA
Flower Color: NA
Wildlife Value: Provides cover and habitat for wildlife in woodland ecosystems
Not only is the Fiddlehead Fern visually stunning, but it is also edible and well-known for its tasty young fiddleheads. When cooked, they taste similar to green beans and are full of vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids. The rhizome is also edible and can be roasted after peeling for a delicious treat
The Fiddlehead Fern recently received the Award of Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society for its ornamental value and is a gardener’s favorite across North America. Easy to grow and maintain, this fern makes a great underplanting option and is a wonderful addition to a shaded garden or woodland landscape
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Fiddlehead Fern Plants
It is easy to grow and virtually pest—and disease-free. Although it prefers shaded environments, it will tolerate part-shade locations as well. Plant this vivacious fern in a protected area, as strong wind can damage the fronds
While this plant is easy to maintain, it does not tolerate summer heat. Make sure that the soil stays moist. Applying a layer of mulch in the summertime will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool. This fern can be propagated by division in spring or by sowing the developed spores
Noteworthy Characteristics of Fiddlehead Fern Plants
Easy to maintain, feathery fronds, edible fiddleheads Plant this multipurpose fern in your garden to enjoy its stunningly lush green fronds and deliciously tasty fiddleheads year after year. Shop for the Fiddlehead Fern online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants
This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery
Height at Maturity
Over 2 Feet
Care
Fiddlehead ferns prefer consistently moist soil, so water regularly to keep the soil damp. They thrive in well-draining, rich soil and benefit from frequent feeding with a fertilizer in the growing season. Prune back any dead or damaged fronds as needed.
Plant Reproduction
Fiddlehead Fern spreads via rhizomes and spores
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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Why You'll Love This Fiddlehead Fern
Unique Fronds:
Renowned for their coiled fronds that unfurl into lush, intricate patterns, adding a captivating beauty to any garden.
Adds Texture:
The intricate fronds add texture and depth, complementing other plants and flowers beautifully.
Thrives in Shade:
Perfect for shady spots, bringing vibrant greenery to areas where many other plants struggle.
Supports Biodiversity:
Provides habitat for small wildlife and insects, enhancing local biodiversity and a healthier ecosystem.
