Matteuccia struthiopteris King (Ostrich fern) The larger form of ostrich fern a great hardy fern with a very upright habit. It spreads easily from underground runners. Plants grow to 4 to 6 feet tall and have a miniature tree fern look forming very small trunk like bases. Matteuccia struthiopteris (Ostrich fern) grow best in shade to part sun in moist to wet soil.