Ostrich Fern - Matteuccia struthiopteris

Ostrich Ferns are attractive and dimorphic plants that gardeners use 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 fern is much smaller in its dormant state, which occurs in the fall and early winter. However, The shape is interesting, so it still provides pleasing shapes in a garden, even if that shape changes.

The Different Phases of the Ostrich Fern

 When nonfertile, the fern is a rich, almost Kelly green, with arching fronds swooshing enticingly in the breeze. It contrasts with other blooming plants and serves as a color anchor in a garden of flowers.

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 An Environmental Friend

 First, the fern's extensive root system is a great soil stabilizer, and 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.

 The Serenity of Ostrich Fern Practitioners of feng shui relies on the fern to bring harmony to a dwelling and the adjacent garden. The way it morphs back into a verdant, thriving plant after being so much smaller throughout the winter also symbolizes new beginnings.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Height at Maturity

Over 2 Feet

Care

Ostrich ferns thrive in moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly to keep the soil always damp but not soggy. Apply a layer of mulch to maintain dampness and suppress weeds. Prune back any dead or damaged fronds in early spring.

Plant Reproduction

Ostrich Fern spreads by creeping rhizomes and forming dense clumps

Choose early spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool to plant healthy bare-root ferns. You can also use dormant plants to grow year-round. When you arrive, please soak the roots in water for several hours to rehydrate them. Ferns thrive in moist and shaded areas. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to spread out the roots comfortably. Position the fern so the crown (where the roots meet the fronds) is just at or slightly below ground level. Gently backfill with soil firmly around the roots, and thoroughly water to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch for weed control and to retain moisture, ensuring the mulch does not touch the crown. Water during dry periods is used to keep soil moist but not soggy. Avoid fertilizing in the first year, as ferns prefer nutrient-rich soil over direct fertilization.

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We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE