As a fern it does not produce flowers. It is an excellent addition to wet marginal areas in mostly shade. The fronds are erect and dissected in a way that is distinct from other ferns. Most fronds are vegetative but it also produces fertile fronds that produce reproductive spores. As the green fronds go away in the fall, the fertile fronds remain erect all winter, adding an additional interest in the off season. An excellent addition to the edges of a shady rain garden, it will spread slowly along suitable margins of wet areas.