Matteuccia struthiopteris
Ostrich fern
© Richie Steffen
Fern Facts
Deciduous
Hardiness (USDA zones): 2-8 — Very cold hardy
Size: 3' - 6'
Size (cm): 91cm-183cm
Height and Spread: Large - Over 3' in height or spread in 5 years
Water Needs: Wet Soils
Garden Use: Ground cover
Origin: Asia, China, Europe, Japan, North America
Description
Rhizomes establish exuberant colonies of individuals that reach 3′ to 6′ tall. Spores are carried on special structures that overwinter for good visual interest, and the fiddleheads are edible! Likes moist to wet soils, in full to part shade.