Matteuccia struthiopteris – Ostrich Fern with Graceful Architectural Fronds
Matteuccia struthiopteris, commonly known as the Ostrich Fern, is a striking and elegant deciduous fern admired for its tall, arching fronds that create a soft yet architectural presence in the garden. The bright green fronds unfurl in spring, forming a symmetrical, vase-shaped clump that brings height and movement to shaded planting areas.
As the season progresses, the foliage remains fresh and vibrant, adding texture and contrast alongside other shade-loving plants. In late summer, shorter, upright fertile fronds appear at the centre, adding further interest and structure.
Its bold yet refined habit makes it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, damp borders, or naturalistic planting schemes, where it can be planted in groups to create a lush, layered effect. The feathery foliage pairs beautifully with broader-leaved plants, softening edges and enhancing the overall composition.
Thriving in moist, humus-rich soil, Matteuccia struthiopteris prefers a shaded or partially shaded position and performs particularly well in consistently damp conditions, such as near water features or in low-lying areas.
Reliable and easy to grow, it requires little maintenance beyond removing old fronds in late winter to make way for fresh growth.
Graceful, textural, and quietly dramatic, the Ostrich Fern is a superb addition to any shaded garden setting.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh green fronds unfurl dramatically.
Summer: Full, arching foliage creates lush structure.
Autumn: Foliage fades before dying back.
Winter: Dormant, with crowns ready for regrowth.
Key Features
Architectural fronds – Tall, arching growth.
Clump-forming – Creates strong structure.
Shade tolerant – Ideal for woodland settings.
Textural planting – Softens and layers borders.
Low maintenance – Easy to grow and care for.
Perfect For
Woodland gardens – Naturalistic planting.
Shaded borders – Adds height and texture.
Damp areas – Thrives in moisture-retentive soil.
Underplanting – Complements trees and shrubs.
Water features – Ideal for pondside planting.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Partial to full shade.
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil; avoid dry conditions.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK.
Care: Cut back old fronds in late winter before new growth emerges.
Looks Great With
Hostas – Broad leaf contrast.
Astilbe – Adds seasonal flower interest.
Ferns – Mix with Dryopteris, Athyrium.
Shade perennials – Brunnera, Heuchera.
Woodland planting – Under trees and along shaded paths.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
