Matteuccia struthiopteris

Matteuccia struthiopteris

Why Buy Me?

• Thrives in shady conditions
• Tall, graceful fronds
• Architectural

Growing Conditions

Light:
Thrives in partial to full shade. Prefers dappled shade or woodland conditions. Can tolerate deeper shade but will grow more slowly.

Soil:
Prefers moist, fertile, humus-rich soil that is well-drained yet retains moisture. Performs best in neutral to slightly acidic soil. Avoid dry or waterlogged soils.

Exposure:
Grows well in sheltered, shady locations such as woodlands or shaded borders. Hardy throughout the UK.

Drought Tolerance:
Requires consistently moist soil and does not tolerate drought well. Regular watering is essential during dry spells.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in spring or autumn to allow roots to establish.

Spacing:
Allow 90–120 cm (36–48 inches) between plants. Mature fronds typically reach 120–180 cm (48–72 inches) tall and spread up to 90 cm (36 inches) wide, forming large clumps.

Watering & Fertilisation:
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to support vigorous growth.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring with organic matter to conserve moisture and improve soil quality. Cut back old, brown fronds in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain tidiness.

Propagation:
Propagate by division in early spring or by spore sowing (more advanced). Division every few years helps rejuvenate plants and control size.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New fronds unfurl in attractive, feathery “ostrich plume” shapes, bright green and fresh.

Summer:
Fronds grow tall and arch gracefully, creating a bold, architectural presence in shaded gardens.

Autumn:
Foliage may yellow before dying back, but often remains attractive until first frost.

Winter:
Deciduous — dies back fully in winter. Brown fronds can be cut back to ground level in late winter to prepare for fresh spring growth.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Provides habitat and shelter for woodland insects and small animals.

Garden Use:
Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, pond edges, and naturalistic planting schemes. Its dramatic fronds create texture and height in shady spots.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with:

• Hostas

• Astilbes

• Ferns (such as Dryopteris)

• Pulmonaria

• Ligularia

Works well with plants that prefer shade and moist soil, adding architectural form and softness to woodland settings.

Transform your home and garden with the Matteuccia struthiopteris, a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.