The Ostrich Fern is the largest fern we grow. Reaching heights of four
to six feet it almost looks like something out of a jungle providing a very dramatic look
in any shade garden. The fronds are shaped like ostrich plumes, hence the name,
being much wider at the top gradually tapering off to a bare stem. Plants spread by
underground runners making it a perfect fern for naturalizing. It will grow happily
in average moist soil but for outstanding results provide a rich soil with plenty of
moisture. It will grow in full sun in cooler climates provided their is constant
moisture. In the south however this fern needs protection from the sun and will need
to a helping hand during dry spells. Interestingly enough we recently learned that
many Northern gardeners eat the spring fiddleheads of Ostrich Ferns. Fiddleheads are
the tightly coiled young fronds or croziers of ferns (see below)
they are shaped like the spiral on the tuning end of a fiddle. The fiddleheads of
the Ostrich Fern are safe to eat, nutritious and we are told taste like asparagus.
1/4 lb of butter
1 lb of fiddleheads (carefully washed and rinsed)
Juice of one lemon
Salt and Pepper
Steam fiddleheads in a petal steamer
for 8 - 10 minutes. Heat butter and sauté garlic gently. Add fiddleheads and
continue to sauté. Squeeze juice of lemon over all and cook gently for 2 - 3
minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Serves 4
The Ostrich Fern is the largest fern we grow. Reaching heights of four
to six feet it almost looks like something out of a jungle providing a very dramatic look
in any shade garden. The fronds are shaped like ostrich plumes, hence the name,
being much wider at the top gradually tapering off to a bare stem. Plants spread by
underground runners making it a perfect fern for naturalizing. It will grow happily
in average moist soil but for outstanding results provide a rich soil with plenty of
moisture. It will grow in full sun in cooler climates provided their is constant
moisture. In the south however this fern needs protection from the sun and will need
to a helping hand during dry spells. Interestingly enough we recently learned that
many Northern gardeners eat the spring fiddleheads of Ostrich Ferns. Fiddleheads are
the tightly coiled young fronds or croziers of ferns (see below)
they are shaped like the spiral on the tuning end of a fiddle. The fiddleheads of
the Ostrich Fern are safe to eat, nutritious and we are told taste like asparagus.
Recipe from 
