Ostrich Fern
Matteuccia struthiopteris · Shuttlecock FernUSDA | Grow Zone
3-7Outdoors all year in zones 3 to 7. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- 50-70%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-6 ft tall, 3-4 ft wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Ostrich Fern, also known as Matteuccia struthiopteris, is a striking perennial fern native to North America. Its unique, feathery fronds add texture and elegance to shaded gardens, making it a popular choice for woodland landscapes.
Ask Vesper about Ostrich Fern
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-6 ft tall, 3-4 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 36-48 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Ostrich Fern prefers consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season.
Water deeply once a week, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In hotter months, increase frequency to twice a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing fronds and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and browning leaf tips.
Light
This fern thrives in partial to full shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily.
Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place it under taller plants or trees. It can tolerate dappled sunlight but prefers a cooler, shaded environment.
Soil
Ostrich Fern flourishes in rich, well-draining, organic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0.
A mix of peat moss, compost, and loamy soil is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This fern enjoys high humidity levels, ideally around 50-70%.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf edges and curling fronds.
Temperature
Ostrich Fern prefers a temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
It can tolerate colder temperatures but should be protected from extreme heat, which can cause stress and leaf damage.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10, applied in early spring as new growth begins.
Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale fronds.
Pruning
Prune Ostrich Fern in late fall or early spring before new growth appears.
Use clean, sharp scissors to remove dead or damaged fronds. This helps promote healthy growth and prevents disease. Deadheading is not necessary for this fern.
Repotting
Repot Ostrich Fern every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant, refresh the soil, and replant.
Propagation
Ostrich Fern can be propagated through division in early spring or fall.
Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has roots and fronds. Replant immediately in well-prepared soil. Propagation by spores is also possible but requires more time and care.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing fronds
Why it happens
This can be caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Adjust watering schedule and consider fertilizing if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or underwatering can lead to this issue.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels through misting or using a humidifier and ensure consistent watering.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat can cause wilting.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and water thoroughly, providing shade during hot weather.
Root rot
Why it happens
Over-watering and poor drainage can lead to root rot.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
Pests (e.g., aphids)
Why it happens
Aphids can infest the plant, especially in warm, dry conditions.
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring to cover both sides of the leaves.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, remove any dead fronds and apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth. Ensure consistent moisture as the plant begins to thrive.
Summer
During summer, monitor moisture levels closely, especially in hot weather. Provide shade if temperatures rise significantly to prevent stress.
Fall
In fall, prepare for dormancy by cutting back dead fronds. Continue to water until the ground freezes, then reduce watering.
Winter
In winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Protect the roots from freezing temperatures by applying a layer of mulch.
Toxicity & Safety
Ostrich Fern is non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Always monitor pets around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Ostrich Fern?
Water your Ostrich Fern once a week, ensuring the soil stays consistently moist. In hot weather, you may need to water twice a week.
What light conditions are best for Ostrich Fern?
Ostrich Fern thrives in partial to full shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily to prevent leaf scorch.
How do I increase humidity for my Ostrich Fern?
To increase humidity, mist the fronds regularly or place a humidifier nearby. Grouping plants can also help maintain higher humidity levels.
When is the best time to propagate Ostrich Fern?
The best time to propagate Ostrich Fern is in early spring or fall when the plant is actively growing. Division is the most effective method.
What type of soil is best for Ostrich Fern?
Ostrich Fern prefers rich, well-draining organic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. A mix of peat moss and compost works well.
Why are my Ostrich Fern's leaves turning brown?
Browning leaves can indicate low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and check your watering routine to address this issue.
How do I prune my Ostrich Fern?
Prune your Ostrich Fern in late fall or early spring by removing dead or damaged fronds with clean scissors to promote healthy new growth.
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