Matteuccia struthiopteris Ostrich fern (Polypodiaceae)

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Matteuccia struthiopteris
Ostrich fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Matteuccia struthiopteris plant species is found in N. Temperate zone. Occasionally naturalized in Britain. It is a member of the Polypodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Ostrich fern. Some home gardeners know the variety as Onoclea germanica. Pterinodes struthiopteris. Struthiopteris germanica.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Matteuccia struthiopteris
Common Name:  Ostrich fern
Family:  Polypodiaceae
Author:  (L.)Tod.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].

Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  Light shade on rocky stream banks, forming extensive colonies[187]. Wooded ravines in Turkey, 650 - 1200 metres[93].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a moist but well-drained position and light shade[1, 187]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Dislikes full sun, the leaves turning yellow and burning in such a situation[200]. Prefers a pH between 5 and 6.5[200]. Dormant plants are hardy to at least -20°c[200]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233]. A very ornamental plant[1], it establishes rapidly[187]. It has a short rhizome but produces long stolons, by which it spreads rapidly once established[187], and it can be invasive[200]. Fertile fronds are produced after the first flush of vegetative fronds and persist throughout the following winter. The spores are shed in mid-winter[200]. Grown commercially for its decorative fronds[106]. These fronds are also available as a food from speciality markets[183, 200]. Plants can be forced in the winter to provide an early supply of the young shoots[183].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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