Matteuccia struthiopteris
Ostrich Fern, Shuttlecock Fern
£11.95
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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These images are for illustration purposes only. Plants are delivered in nursery pots and other individual features may not be present due to seasonality.
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.
First shuttlecock fern was replaced due to number of broken stems. Second fern was better but only because fewer stems were broken. Inappropriate packaging was reason for the damage.
Palm Centre response: Thanks for your feedback. Unfortunately, the emerging fronds on many ferns are very delicate and can get broken in transit. However, we are constantly looking at ways to improve our packing and shipping.
Raymond Milhinch (verified owner) –