Matteuccia struthiopteris
Ostrich Fern, Shuttlecock Fern
Matteuccia struthiopteris, or the Ostrich fern, is a wonderfully architectural and extremely hardy plant for moist, cool places. Once settled in it will spread by lateral stolons to form quite dense colonies of beautifully elegant lime-green shuttlecocks.
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Plant Biography
This delightful upright deciduous fern grows en mass in impressive natural colonies across a huge range of temperate regions in the Northern Hemisphere. As well as in its common name, the similarity to graceful tapering Ostrich feathers is also referenced in the Ancient Greek root of struthiopteris, also translating as Ostrich fern.
In parts of North America, the young fronds are considered something of a delicacy and the export of fiddleheads for the gourmet market is big business in some parts of its range. They taste, it is said, similar to asparagus. The young growth is considered a particular delicacy in Japan, where this  is known as ‘kogomi.’
Expert tip
Care Size & Guidance
At full size the Matteuccia struthiopteris can reach almost a metre wide and 1.8m tall, so do not be tempted to overcrowd them when planting. They will naturally die back in the winter and return with spectacular unfurling fountains in Spring, making for a wonderful cyclical display to look forward to. Designers often consider pairing such dramatic deciduous show stoppers with  supporting partners that can provide interest in the winter months, for example fiery stemmed Cornus varieties which appreciate the same damp conditions as Matteuccia struthiopteris.
Beautiful healthy ferns.
Very well packaged and quick delivery. All good, thanks!
Julie (verified owner) –
Expected them on Monday but they arrived today, Saturday just as I was starting planting so well chuffed! the plants look in good condition and were well packaged
Aileen Wallace (verified owner) –
Plant arrived within the time slot I was advised and was well packaged. The plant itself is a very healthy specimen of good size and colour and will look fabulous in my fern garden. I’ve had a number of online purchases from the Palm Centre and would recommend them to others for the quality of their plants and their customer service
Janet (verified owner) –
I was searching for a particular fern and found them here at an amazing price.
The correspondence from The Palm Centre was detailed and accurate regarding dispatch and delivery.
The plants themselves are healthy and a good size and are already happily ensconced in my garden.
This is my first time shopping with the Palm Centre but it won’t be my last for sure.
Tracey White (verified owner) –