Species › Plants › Ostrich Fern

Ostrich Fern

Matteuccia struthiopteris

CommonPlant
Illustration of Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)

Ostrich Fern is a large, graceful fern with feathery fronds that resemble ostrich plumes. It is a popular ornamental plant and is also known for its edible fiddleheads.

Habitat
Found in moist, shaded woodlands and along stream banks.
Diet
Provides cover and habitat for small forest animals.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Ostrich Fern

The best time to see a Ostrich Fern is April–June, when about 69% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 16,825 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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