Fern, Ostrich #1
Ostrich Fern
Matteuccia struthiopteris
- Height: Typically 2–3 feet tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
- Spread: About 2–3 feet wide
- Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for a neat, textural clump
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Deciduous
- Native to Michigan
Description
Ostrich Fern offers a stunning splash of lush green texture to Michigan landscapes with its bold, arching fronds that unfurl each spring and remain fresh through summer. This magnificent fern forms a compact, tidy clump that brings a satisfying, modern statement of natural elegance to shady areas. While it does not produce noticeable fragrance or edible fruit, its striking, feathery foliage creates a refreshing, textural interest ideal for naturalized plantings or container displays. Enjoy the invigorating presence of Ostrich Fern as it enhances the landscape with its bold, architectural form, perfectly suited to Michigan’s cooler climate.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in partial to full shade, requiring at least 4–6 hours of indirect or filtered light daily for optimal growth.
- Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, which supports robust, healthy clump formation.
- Watering: Provide consistent moisture throughout the growing season to maintain its vibrant foliage in Michigan’s cooler conditions.
- Mulching: A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base helps conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature; be sure to leave a small gap around the clump for proper airflow.
- Pruning: Remove any dead or browned fronds in the fall to keep the clump looking polished and to encourage fresh growth in the spring.
Ostrich Fern brings a lovely and uplifting accent to Michigan landscapes, delivering a modern, refreshing texture that captivates with its bold, natural beauty.
