Ostrich Fern is the tallest of the common landscape ferns, having a light green color to its upright fronds. Like most ferns, it is best placed in shady sites in moist, rich, well-drained soils, or else severe leaf scorch in Summer will result. A mulch of mini pinebark or shredded leaves is a good cultural practice in late Autumn, to protect the protruding crowns throughout the Winter.