The King ostrich fern
Onoclea struthiopteris 'The King'
USDA zones3 to 7
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size3 to 6 feet tall3 to 5 feet wide
- Bloom color
- Non-flowering
Garden uses
Notes
'The King' ostrich fern (Onoclea struthiopteris 'The King') is a fern for rain gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average to wet soil. Its upright fronds form an elegant cone, and it spreads by underground rhizomes to form colonies, so give it room. Rabbits rarely make it their first choice. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Pairs well with Pickerel weed, Allegheny monkeyflower, and Canada wild rye.