Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris): While ostrich fern can grow 4 to 6 feet tall in the wild, it is generally shorter in gardens. This large deciduous fern is vase shaped and will reach greatest height with ample water and rich soil. Grow in light to full shade, with constant moisture, in the mountains and piedmont only. Propagate by edge division. One of our country's most elegant native plants. In the wild, ostrich ferns grow in cool, moist shade beside streams and rivers. The plants form large colonies and can stand up to 6 feet tall. Enjoy watching the springtime fiddleheads slowly unfurl into lacy, bright green fronds. Zone: 3-8.