Terrestrial or sometimes epiphytic ferns. Rhizome erect or creeping, scaly and occasionally forming a short, narrow trunk. Sterile and fertile fronds generally different. Fronds leathery, simple or divided once (to several times in cultivars), the fertile ones generally narrower; margins entire or saw-toothed; veins joining near the main ribs or free. Sori on the margins or lateral, solitary or fused together in groups; indusia present or absent, opening towards the midrib.

8 genera c. 220 species tropical to cool temperate (4 genera with 28 species in Australia).

Sori in short rows or long lines parallel to the axis and opening towards it.

Source: Spencer, R. (1995). Blechnaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 1, Ferns, conifers & their allies. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.