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Partial to Shade
3-4 ft./yr Growth
Safe for Pets
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Premium Potting Mix
Nutrient-rich blend for healthy growth
+ $19
Premium Root Stimulant
Boost soil and reduces transplant shock
+ $12
Ostrich Fern Information
About The Ostrich Fern
Ostrich Fern: A Timeless Touch of Lush Greenery
Looking to add a classic, woodland vibe to your garden? The Ostrich Fern is the perfect choice! Known for its striking, feathery fronds that can reach up to 4 feet in height, this fern brings an elegant, prehistoric feel to your landscape—no dinosaurs required.
Why You'll Love the Ostrich Fern
- Bold and Beautiful: The arching fronds create a striking visual impact, resembling the plume of an ostrich, hence the name. It's a perfect statement plant for shady spots.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Ostrich Ferns are tough and thrive with minimal care, making them ideal for gardeners who want to enjoy lush greenery without constant upkeep.
- Shade-Loving Wonder: Ostrich Ferns love partial to full shade, making them a great choice for those tricky, low-light garden areas.
- Moisture Lover: They thrive in consistently moist soil, perfect for areas near ponds, streams, or rain gardens.
Where to Plant
The Ostrich Fern is excellent for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or naturalized areas where it can spread freely. It also shines in container gardens—bring a piece of the forest to your patio or balcony! Just make sure to keep the soil damp and place it in a shaded spot.
Get Your Own Slice of Lush, Green Paradise
Transform those shady, damp corners into a lush haven with Ostrich Ferns. Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, they’ll come back year after year, growing even more majestic with time.
Ostrich Fern Details
Mature Height:
3-4 ft.
Mature Width:
3-4 ft.
Sunlight:
Indirect Light
Growth Rate:
Fast
Botanical Name:
Matteuccia struthiopteris
Grows Well In Zones:
5-9 outdoors
Does Not Ship To:
AK, AZ, HI, OR
Growing Zones 5-9 Outdoors
(Hardy down to 10° F)
Watering Requirements
Water newly planted ferns 2–3 times a week, or daily during summer heat, to help establish a strong root system. Once established, Ostrich Ferns need consistently moist soil and require a deep soaking 1–2 times a week to prevent the fronds from turning brown. Container-grown plants dry out quickly and need daily checking, often requiring water every single day during peak heat.
Sunlight Requirements
Thrives in partial to full shade, making a north-facing garden spot or soft morning sun ideal. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which will scorch the fronds unless the soil stays consistently wet.
Humidity Requirements
Ferns prefer a higher humidity environment, preferably between 50-70%. Ideal to plant in sheltered, naturally damp locations like shade gardens, woodland borders, near water features, or alongside rain runoff paths.
Pet-Friendly Plant?
Yes, this plant is safe for homes with pets.
What is an Ostrich Fern?
The Ostrich Fern is a large, deciduous, native perennial fern known for its tall, vase-shaped clusters of feathery bright green fronds that resemble ostrich plumes.
How often should you water Ostrich Fern?
Water 2-3 times per week, ensuring the soil stays moist. If soil dries out, the foliage will turn brown and go dormant early in the season.
How do you prune Ostrich Fern?
Cut back dead, tattered fronds in late fall or early spring down to the crown before new growth emerges. During hot summer months, you can remove yellowing fronds near the base to keep the crown tidy.
Is Ostrich Fern invasive?
The Ostrich Fern is not technically invasive in North America as a native species, but it can be aggressive. It spreads rapidly through underground stolons (rhizomes) to form dense colonies, making it best suited for rain gardens, naturalized woodland areas, or contained beds.
All of our plants ship in premium packaging for zero damage on arrival. Here’s what you can expect in your box on arrival:
Your Ostrich Fern
Fully rooted in a nursery pot with soil intact
Custom Protection System
Corner guards, soil stabilizer, and branch sleeves keep it secure
Pre-Watered & Ready
Each plant is watered 24 hours before it is shipped
Care Instructions Card
Includes expert-curated care tips to help your plant thrive far beyond the first 30 days.
Perfect For Gifting
No pricing or packing slips included with gifts! Just the plant and a note.
Additional Resources
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 1
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 2
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 3
- Patio Gardening 101: Growing in Containers
- Gardening 101: How to Dig the Perfect Hole
- Gardening 101: How to Determine Sunlight in Your Garden
- Gardening 101: How to Mulch Your Garden
- Gardening 101: How to Water Your Garden
Patio Gardening 101: Growing in Containers
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a lush garden but lack a sprawling backyard, don’t worry—patio gardening is the perfect solution! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials...
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Gardening 101: How to Dig the Perfect Hole
Gardening is a rewarding hobby, but to ensure your plants thrive, it's crucial to know the best time to plant and how to dig the perfect hole. In this guide,...
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Gardening 101: How to Determine Sunlight in Your Garden
Understanding the sunlight in your garden is key to creating a thriving outdoor space. In this article, we'll guide you through simple ways to determine sunlight in your garden, ensuring...
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Gardening 101: How to Mulch Your Garden
Mulching is one of the most beneficial practices for maintaining a healthy garden. In this guide, we'll explore how to properly mulch your garden and the different types of mulch...
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Gardening 101: How to Water Your Garden
Watering your garden correctly is essential for the health and growth of your plants. This guide will help you understand how to water your garden effectively and establish an ongoing...
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Why Choose The Sill?
Not all Ostrich Ferns are created equal
Greenhouse Grown
Not warehouse-held. Hand-picked and cared for by our experts.
Outdoor Ready
Pre-conditioned for outdoor growth.
Hand-Selected
Inspected by experts. Only our best ship out.
30-Day Guarantee
Free replacements if not happy and healthy.