Matteuccia struthiopteris

The shuttlecock fern, Matteuccia struthiopteris, is a particularly attractive fern, bearing large, pale green, lacy fronds. It's an excellent foliage plant for moist, dappled shade and works particularly well when planted in groups. Grow it among other moisture- and shade loving plants such as on the edge of a pond, in woodland situations or in a large container on a shady patio.

Matteuccia struthiopteris spreads slowly by underground rhizomes. The offsets can be dug up and moved in spring, but plants look best when left to form colonies. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).