Polystichum formosum

Rhizome thick, covered in scales. Fronds tufted, erect, 30–60 cm long. Stipe comparatively long; scales dull, papery and uniformly pale to mid-brown, denser and larger towards base, interspersed with small, short-lived scales with hair-like projections. Lamina 2–3-pinnate, ovate-triangular, lowest pinnae sometimes deflexed, bright green; rachis and midvein scales numerous, narrow, fawn, silky, basal margins with fine projections, interspersed with very small scales with hair-like projections from margins. Bulbils absent. Pinnules sharply pointed at tip and sharply toothed at margin, each tooth almost awn-tipped. Sori spherical, in 2 rows distant from margin; indusium papery, pale brown.