The ostrich fern, scientifically called Matteuccia struthiopteris, is also known as the fiddlehead fern. Ostrich ferns are deciduous plants that grow in moist thickets, especially along running water.
Appearance
Ostrich ferns grow to be between 3 and 5 feet tall, with waving sterile fronds that taper at the top and at the bottom. The fronds are dense and slightly rigid, and as the plant matures, it turns from dark green to brown. The leaf stalk, known as the stipe, is deeply grooved at the base.
Cultivation
Grow ostrich ferns in medium to wet soil in partial or full shade. Washington State University recommends planting them as companion plants for sword ferns and hostas, which are other shade loving plants.
Edibility
Young fiddlehead ferns are edible. Pick them when they appear in the early spring, brushing off the brown scales from the previous year's growth. Steam them for 20 minutes and then serve them hot with melted butter.
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