Northern maidenhair fern is a deciduous, clump-forming fern. It typically grows 1.5–2' tall and is commonly found in rich woodland slopes, ravines, and damp, shady forests. Its delicate, finely textured fronds have a graceful, fan-like shape with finger-like divisions. Slender stems range from reddish-brown to nearly black, while new pink fiddleheads emerge in spring.