Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)

Description: Hardy, herbaceous North American perennial - Erect, broadly lance-shaped pale to medium green fronds
Habit: Fronds grow 4-6 feet high and 3 feet wide; rhizomatous fern with vigorous habit
Culture: Prefers humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to slightly acid soil; partial to full shade
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3 through 8
Origin: Eastern North America, Europe, eastern Asia
Attributes: Rain garden, heavy shade, rabbit tolerant

This tall, handsome and luxurious fern, formerly known as Struthiopteris pennsylvanica, commonly occurs in moist, deciduous woodlands in Europe, East Asia, and North America. It was recommended for moist gardens and for planting next to ponds by the late 19th century. Early 20th-century English garden writer William Robinson wrote that both the Asian and American species make a "noble appearance in the bolder rock gardens - and should not be confined to the fernery."

Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) arrives in a 1 quart pot.