Matteuccia struthiopteris is commonly known as the Shuttlecock Fern or Ostrich Fern. Circumpolar in its habitat, this beautiful fern creeps underground by rhizomes, and over time it can cover a larger area. Preferring moisture and part shade, too little water or too much sun can cause it to lag and suffer. Fast growing in the spring, the fronds can reach three feet tall, if well fed. We plant this fern where we know its neighbors won't mind it traveling about. Deciduous, this plant dies down with the winter rains and frosts.