Large and vase-shaped, with beautifully textured fronds, Ostrich Fern creates a dramatic effect in the shade garden. Excellent for naturalizing, it is a good choice for stabilizing soils along shady stream banks and ravines. While many ferns prefer acid to neutral soils, Ostrich Fern is tolerant of a wider range of soils. In optimal moist conditions Ostrich Fern can spread and form dense colonies. The emerging fiddlehead shoots are considered a delicacy, when cooked. Ostrich Fern is both deer and rabbit resistant.