Matteuccia struthiopteris - Shuttlecock Fern, Bog Plant (RHS AGM)
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Matteuccia struthiopteris - Shuttlecock Fern, Bog Plant (RHS AGM)
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Product specifications and features
Product Description
Matteuccia struthiopteris - Shuttlecock Fern, Bog Plant (RHS AGM)
Matteuccia struthiopteris, known as shuttlecock fern or ostrich fern, holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. In spring it forms upright "shuttlecocks" of bright green, feathery fronds around shorter brown fronds that carry the spores.
Shuttlecock fern at a glance
| Botanical name | Matteuccia struthiopteris |
|---|---|
| Common name | Shuttlecock fern, ostrich fern |
| Plant type | Deciduous fern; no flowers |
| Height and spread | About 1–1.5 m tall; spreads to form colonies 1.5 m or more across |
| Flowers | None; brown spore-bearing fronds in the centre |
| Position | Part shade or shade, sheltered |
| Soil | Moist, acid or neutral clay, loam or sand |
| Pond depth | None – moist soil, not standing water |
| Hardiness | RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C) |
| Native to | Not confirmed as UK native |
Is shuttlecock fern a pond plant?
No. It is a fern for moist, shady ground, not a water plant. Plant it in damp soil near a pond, in a bog garden or in a shady border. The RHS lists it as resilient to flooding.
Does it spread?
Yes. It sends out runners and forms colonies of shuttlecocks over time, so give it room.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in spring in a sheltered spot in part or full shade, in soil that stays moist. It is generally free of pests and diseases.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
