Matteuccia struthiopteris

Matteuccia struthiopteris

Ostrich Fern.

Shuttlecock Fern.

Matteuccia struthiopteris is a beautiful elegant deciduous fern with bright pale green fronds which unfurl in spring to form tight ‘shuttlecocks’.

The ostrich fern is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining. It prefers moist, shady locations and is often found growing in woodlands and along riverbanks. It can also tolerate some sunlight but prefers to be in partial shade.

This spectacular fern is most beautiful in spring when the large, pale green, lacy fronds start to unfurl with sunlight filtering through the new fronds. It is one of the best foliage plants for areas of moist, dappled shade planted in groups next to water or in a woodland garden in between deciduous trees. It can also be used as a deciduous ground cover allowing the space to be used for bulbs during Winter or early spring.

Grows to a height of 1m. with a spread of 1m.

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Matteuccia struthiopteris, commonly known as the ostrich fern, is a beautiful and unique plant that belongs to the family Onocleaceae. It is a deciduous fern that is native to temperate regions of the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The ostrich fern is a large fern that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 1 meter in width, and it has a distinctive vase-shaped growth habit.

The ostrich fern is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining. It prefers moist, shady locations and is often found growing in woodlands and along riverbanks. It can also tolerate some sunlight but prefers to be in partial shade. The ostrich fern is also tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive happily in the UK.

The ostrich fern is a popular ornamental plant, commonly used in gardens and landscapes for its beautiful fronds and unique form. It is also a significant plant in traditional medicine and cuisine, and it has a long history of use by various cultures around the world.

The ostrich fern has a unique growth habit that sets it apart from other ferns. It produces two types of fronds: sterile and fertile. The sterile fronds are large, green, and vase-shaped, while the fertile fronds are smaller, brown, and more upright. The sterile fronds are the primary source of ornamental value, and they provide a beautiful backdrop for other plants in the garden. The fertile fronds, on the other hand, produce spores that are necessary for reproduction.

In traditional medicine, the ostrich fern has been used for a variety of ailments, including arthritis, rheumatism, and digestive disorders. The roots and young shoots are the most commonly used parts of the plant. The roots are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, while the young shoots are used as a laxative and diuretic.

In conclusion, Matteuccia struthiopteris, or the ostrich fern, is a unique and beautiful plant that has many uses in both traditional medicine and cuisine. Its distinctive growth habit, hardiness, and tolerance for shade make it a popular ornamental plant, while its young shoots are a delicacy enjoyed by many cultures around the world. However, it is essential to take precautions when harvesting and consuming the plant to avoid any potential health risks.