Matteuccia struthiopteris, commonly known as ostrich fern, is a perennial fern native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It typically grows in moist, shaded areas, such as along riverbanks and in woodlands. The plant features large, feathery fronds that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height, resembling the plumes of an ostrich, which is how it gets its name. Ostrich fern is notable for its fiddleheads, the coiled young fronds that emerge in spring. These fiddleheads are edible and are often harvested for culinary use, providing a unique flavor. The fern is also valued for its ornamental appeal in gardens and landscapes.