Matteuccia struthiopteris

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Matteuccia struthiopteris

Also known as: Ostrich fern

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer, Soil

Format: Smal

Height: 1.00 m

Width: 0.50 m

Growth Rate: -

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 2-7

Soil Moisture:
Moist

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral

Light:
Half shade

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Root

Edibility:
(2)

Medicinal:
(1)

Features:
Ground cover

Description

Young leaves of the ostrich fern can be eaten both raw and cooked. These leaves are harvested before they are fully unfurled, making them thick and juicy. They have a flavor reminiscent of asparagus. Sometimes, these young leaves are sold at special markets. It is said that in China, the leaves of the ostrich fern were only eaten in times of food scarcity. The lower stem can be peeled and eaten roasted.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/04

End of Harvest: 30/04

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Arbutus unedoxaera Strawberry Tree	Provides shade and retains moisture for the ferns.
Malus prunifolia Chinese Apple, Plumleaf crab apple	Attracts pollinators and offers additional ground cover.
Corylus colurna Turkish Hazel	Enhances soil fertility with its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Salix alba Willow	Helps stabilize soil and prevents erosion.
Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle	Provides ground cover and suppresses weeds.
Rubus idaeus Raspberry	Offers edible berries and attracts beneficial insects.
Sambucus nigra European elder	Provides additional shade and attracts birds.
Mentha aquatica Water mint	Improves soil moisture retention and adds aroma to the garden.
Urtica dioica Stinging nettel, California nettel	Attracts beneficial insects and improves soil health.
Vaccinium macrocarpon American Cranberry	Provides edible fruits and attracts pollinators.