A spectacular large Missouri native fern, Ostrich Fern, Matteuccia struthiopteris, creates a spectacular display with upright to arching deep green fronds that typically grows 2-3′ tall but may reach 6′ tall in moist, cool, ideal conditions. Its long ostrich plumes have a feathery look. Fiddleheads emerge in spring. Plants spreads by rhizomes to form dense colonies making them a good ground cover.

Plants grow best in rich soil with consistent moisture, although plants tolerate drought.