Illustrative photo.
Matteuccia struthiopteris shuttlecock fern, ostrich fern
size/type
mid-sized perennial,mid-sized perennial
usual height
0,6-1m
usual width
0,3-0,4m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
insignificant or non-blooming
location
full sun to shade
USDA zone (lowest)
4 (down to -34°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Description of the plant:
Shuttlecock fern (ostrich fern) is one of the most common ferns of European origin. It grows in our woodlands, in shaded areas and on wet meadows.
It has erect, light green fronds that under ideal conditions can grow 1.5m tall, but are usually shorter in cultivation, reaching some 80 cm. It spreads by underground rhizomes which can be easily removed if you do not want it to spread.
Growing conditions and care
It needs light and preferably acidic soil that is constantly moist. It is usually cultivated in partial shade or filtered sun, however, if the soil is constantly moist it does well in full sun, too. Fully hardy to min. -34°C (USDA zone 4).
Last update 06-02-2009; 06-03-2013
