The ostrich fern prefers a shady location, also near a pond. The Matteuccia struthiopteris is resistant to diseases and pests.
The European ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is an imposing sight and is not considered one of the most attractive native ferns without reason. The graceful fronds are an asset to any shade garden and look particularly good near ponds and streams. As one of the largest fern species, the ostrich fern can grow to a height of up to 120 centimetres. In spring, the erect fronds grow from the brown rosette. Enjoy this elegant appearance and give an endangered plant species a new home in your garden.
Ostrich Fern - Origin
The home of the plant, also known as funnel fern or ostrich fern for short, is in Central Europe. The genus Matteuccia also includes the Japanese and American ostrich ferns. The plants belong to the polyphylla family.
The ostrich fern is most widespread in cooler Scandinavia. The southern range extends to Romania and Italy. In Germany, the occurrences are declining sharply and the endangered plant is under nature protection.
The ostrich fern prefers to grow on shady stream and river banks. The Japanese ostrich ferns offered in specialist shops are also suitable for garden culture, but they require a little more care and additional protection in winter.
| Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) | |
|---|---|
| Growth: | Funnel-like, forms clumps, over time covering the ground with strong runners |
| Growth: | 80 - 120 cm |
| Growth: | 80 - 100 cm |
| Usage: | Tree edge, not suitable for small gardens |
| Location: | Penumbral shade to full shade |
| Floor: | fresh to moist, well drained, humic |
Ostrich fern - special features
The ostrich fern sprout early. Ask as early as Aprilthe elegant-looking fronds are an attractive accompaniment to early bloomers. The outer fern leaves are sterile and are only needed for photosynthesis. There are spores on the inner leaves. These leaves are narrower and resemble ostrich feathers. The plants owe their name to this fact. The spores mature in late summer. Then the leaves appear brownish and are occupied by two rows of spore vessels.
Find the right location
The location in the garden can be based on the natural growth conditions of the plant. The ostrich fern prefers to grow in alluvial forests near water. In the garden, a place in semi-shade to shade should be chosen. High air and soil moisture is an advantage.
The ideal location is in a shady spot near the pond. Suitable plant neighbors are astilbes, irises or purple loosestrife. Group planting is beneficial. The underplanting of trees creates a picturesque and rustic garden picture.
» Tip: The ostrich fern spreads rapidly. If this is to be prevented, the plant can be placed in a bucket and thus sunk into the ground.
Selecting the ideal substrate
The ostrich fern must not be too dry. The plants thrive best in a moist and nutrient-rich substrate. The ferns tolerate lime just as little as dry soil. Sandy, alluvial soil with a slightly acidic pH creates ideal growing conditions for ferns.
Planting ostrich fern - step by step
The ostrich fern should be planted in spring if possible. Then the plants have enough time to take root before winter. So that the ostrich fern comes into its own, it is important to ensure that there is sufficient planting distance. A minimum distance of 80 centimeters from the plant neighbors ensures that the fronds can spread optimally. Plant no more than three plants per square meter.
Planting step by step
- Select Location
- Clean and loosen soil
- Dip rhizome in water
- Dig Planting Hole
- Use rhizome barrier (to prevent uncontrolled spread)
- Insert the rhizome (deeper than it was in the pot)
- Fill substrate
- Water the plant well
As already mentioned, pot planting is also possible. The bucket can be placed decoratively or placed directly in the ground. This makes creating aNo need for rhizome barrier.
Proper care for ostrich ferns
You don't have to pay much attention here. It is important that the ostrich fern is not too dry. Water the ostrich fern regularly. If the drought persists, a shower from the sprinkler or garden hose is also good for the plant.
The ostrich fern does not require fertilization. The plant does not need to be pruned either. If necessary, the fronds can be shortened if they grow too luxuriantly and get in the way of other neighboring beds.
An overview of the most important planting and care tips
| Occupation | Explanation |
| Select Location | Partial shade to shade High humidity Preferred near a pond |
| Prepare the ground | moist nutritious sandy slightly acidic |
| other care measures | water regularly no fertilization required fronds can be trimmed |
Propagating ostrich ferns
The ostrich fern can be propagated by division. This should be done in spring before budding.
Proceed as follows:
- Dig Rhizome
- Remove rhizome from soil
- Split rhizome
- leave at least one shoot bud on the rhizome
- Plant sections in pots
- Fill pots with seed compost (pay attention to nutrient-poor soil)
- Keep pots moist
- Overwinter pots frost-free indoors
- Planting ostrich ferns in spring
Diseases and pests on the ostrich fern
The all-clear can be given here. The ostrich fern is considered resistant to diseases. Pests also show no interest in ferns and even snails ignore the ostrich fern.
Ostrich fern overwintering
The ostrich fern is hardy and retreats to its rhizome in autumn. Only the divided rhizomes should hibernate bright and frost-free and only be planted out in spring. Some commercial ferns are less hardy and should be protected from frost with a layer of foliage or twigs.