Matteuccia struthiopteris var. pennsylvanica
Blooming Time
Exposure
Ostrich fern is so named because its fronds are reminiscent of giant ostrich feathers. Tall, tough, hardy, and as graceful as any, the ostrich fern excels not only as a specimen or accent plant, but also as a ground cover underneath large deciduous trees, along property borders in broad sweeping beds, or close to buildings as a foundation facer.
Details
Hardiness Zone:
Blossom Color:
Growth Habit:
Max Height:
5'
Texture:
Recommended Spacing:
We sell this plant in these containers:
Special Characteristics
Features
Bright green leaves resemble giant ostrich plumes. Tall, tough, hardy and graceful. Moisture tolerant. Native species.
Landscape Value
Specimen, companion, accent, or massed as a ground cover.
Care
Watering:
Ostrich fern requires a fair amount of supplemental watering and often requires watering on a regular basis during the growing season.
Fertilizing:
Ostrich fern is a moderate feeder, benefiting from a couple of annual applications of slow release fertilizer. A spring application of a 3-1-2 ratio (such as a 15-5-10) can be applied at a rate of about 10 pounds per 1000 square feet, and during early fall, an application of a 2-1-2 ratio (such as a 10-5-10) can be applied to encourage root development and cold hardiness.
Pruning:
Ostrich fern is a deciduous plant (nonevergreen) and does not require pruning. It is perfectly acceptable to allow the dropped leaves to decompose and nourish the soil.