Ostrich Ferns make tall, attractive additions to flower gardens and lawns. Known botanically as Matteuccia pensylvanica, its foliage can get as tall as 10 feet, but more commonly reaches a height of five or six feet. The plant propagates itself by sending out root extensions which sprout foliage in dense formations. It grows wild in the eastern United States and is easily propagated domestically by dividing the rootstocks and replanting in late spring. They will even do well when transplanted in mid-summer heat, provided that they are supplied with plenty of water.
It’s hardy from zones 2a to 10b, and thrives in full sun or full shade. The soil should be kept consistently moist, especially in hot, dry climates. M. Struthiopteris is another species that is synonymous with Ostrich fern, and is also sold under that name. Both types do best if planted in partial shade, in a deep loamy mix enriched with plenty of organic matter. Mulch lightly with leaves around the slightly exposed crown, and in no time, a beautiful fern thicket will be sprouting lush growth.