The King Ostrich Fern
Matteuccia struthiopteris 'The King'
4-inch pot
 
A bold and refined selection of the classic ostrich fern, The King is prized for its upright, symmetrical habit and rich green, feathery fronds that create a strong architectural presence in the shade garden. Compared to the species, it is more uniform and slightly more compact, forming a tidy, vase-shaped clump that adds structure and elegance to woodland plantings.
 
This fern thrives in rich, moist, well-drained soil and performs best in shaded to partially shaded locations. It is especially well suited to woodland gardens, along streams, or in areas with consistent moisture where it can establish and spread slowly over time. Deciduous in winter, it returns each spring with fresh, vigorous growth.
 
Herbaceous perennial fern
Zones 3–7
Part shade to full shade
Grows 3–5 ft. tall x 2–3 ft. wide
Moderate to high water needs; prefers consistent moisture and rich soil
Deer-resistant
Foliage interest spring through fall