Matteuccia Struthiopteris

'Ostrich Fern'

Matteuccia struthiopteris — commonly called Ostrich Fern — is a bold, deciduous fern (perennial) valued for its tall, vase-shaped form and lush, tropical appearance. It forms upright clumps of large, feathery fronds that resemble ostrich plumes, creating strong vertical interest in shaded landscapes. In spring, young fiddleheads emerge and unfurl into bright green fronds, while shorter, fertile fronds may persist into winter, adding seasonal structure.

Mature Size:
Width: 3–4 ft
Height: 3–5 ft

USDA Zones: 3a–7b
Light: Partial shade to full shade
Soil: Moist to wet, rich soils; tolerant of periodic flooding
Water: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist conditions

Wildlife: Provides cover for small wildlife; generally not favored by deer

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Upright, clumping to spreading fern with a vase-shaped habit
Large, plume-like fronds create a bold, tropical look
Spreads by rhizomes to form colonies over time
Excellent for woodland gardens, naturalized areas, and near water features
Adds height, texture, and movement to shaded plantings

Maintenance:
Allow space for spreading colonies or contain as needed
Cut back old fronds in early spring
Divide or thin colonies if they become too dense

Plant type

Fern

Height

3-5'

Width

3-4'

Hardiness zones

3–7

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Moist well-drained, Normal

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Clump, Upright, Wide Spreading

Drought tolerant

No