The King of Ferns

Ostrich ferns are one of the largest species of fern in eastern North America. My yard is full of them, and they spread easily. Ours grow about waist high, but I have seen whole valleys of them in nearby Wisconsin where they can get to shoulder height. I consider them the king of our native ferns. They are majestic. I have tried to photograph the whole plant, isolated on a white background, but without success yet. I have yet to try digging one up, and bringing it inside for a portrait. Perhaps that is an experiment worth trying this summer.

ostrich fern fronds in high summer (Matteuccia struthiopteris)