Sori start to form in late August - early September and die off by end of October.

Sterile blade up to 12 in long and equally wide on a stalk from 1-7 in.  Triangular appears to be divided into 3 sections because basal pinnae are much enlarged.  Leathery, coarse, fleshy, and often parallel or almost parallel to the soil.

Pinnae trowel-shaped, often divided into pinnules with toothed, serrated, or lacy-cut edges and pointed tips, are very variable, from lobed to highly dissected.  Also variable in color, green to dark blue-green, turning bronze in winter or when in full sun.

Fertile blade overtops sterile blade, with branched clusters of sporangia.  Sporangia start out green and become golden yellow. Withers soon after spores are released.