Ostrich Fern

Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is a lush, clump‐forming perennial valued for its graceful, arching fronds that resemble ostrich plumes. Thriving in part to full shade and rich, consistently moist soil, it adds vertical texture and movement to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and along streams. In spring, the tight, edible fiddleheads emerge before unfurling into majestic green foliage that can reach over a metre tall. Hardy in Canadian zones 2–7, it’s low‐maintenance and deer‐resistant, providing year‐round structure even after frond dieback.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Matteuccia struthiopteris
• Common name: Ostrich Fern
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 2–7
• Exposure: Part shade to full shade
• Soil: Rich, moist, well‐drained; high in organic matter
• Height: 1–1.5 m (3–5 ft)
• Width: 1–1.2 m (3–4 ft)
• Foliage: Upright, arching fronds; bright green
• Edible shoots: Tender fiddleheads in early spring
• Maintenance: Low; divide clumps every 3–4 years to rejuvenate
• Advantages: Striking architectural form; excellent for damp, shady sites; deer‐resistant; edible fiddleheads