How to plant Matteuccia
One of the most striking deciduous ferns in spring is Matteuccia, the Shuttlecock Fern, named for the beautiful shape of its lacy fronds. The pale green foliage emerges tightly curled in spring, slowly unfurling upwards as they mature throughout summer. The architectural, upright fronds are perfect for bringing structure to dappled shade between deciduous trees, or illuminating shaded borders and surrounding pond edges where the soil remains damp. This shade-loving beauty is at its best once established, when its underground rhizomes start to spread to create magnificent colonies. Plant it where the fronds will be backlit by rays of dappled light for the most magical display!
How to plant
- Plant Matteuccia bare roots in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
- Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (or 15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost.
- Plant so that the roots are fully submerged below the soil surface and with the crown/buds just level with the soil surface. Any emerging shoots or leaves should be left exposed above the soil surface
- Grow the potted bare roots on in a sheltered spot outside. They can be transplanted into a suitable position in a border after 2-4 months, or once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil held intact by the root system.
- Matteuccia prefers a reliably moist, well drained, fertile soil. It flourishes in cool, damp areas in the garden or at the edge of woodlands. Choose a position in dappled light or shade.
- This perennial is fully hardy and does not require winter protection.
- Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.
Aftercare
- Fresh, pale green fronds emerge in spring and extend throughout summer, becoming gradually darker green in colour. The foliage will naturally die back in autumn and can then be cut back to where they meet the base of the plant, just above ground level.
- Once established they need very little maintenance and can be left to spread by underground rhizomes which create impressive colonies. An autumn mulch of leaf mould is always appreciated but do avoid covering the crown of the plant.