The fronds of Polypodium virginianum are monomorphic (fertile and sterile fronds are similar in appearance), the blades are pinnatifid, less than 7 cm wide and the sori are round. That combination of characters is unique in our flora. Fronds may be up to 40 cm long, but are often less than 25 cm. The fronds are evergreen, but they may shrivel up under prolonged dry conditions. Their ability to recover their original appearance when they are rehydrated is the basis for the common name of "resurrection fern".

P. virginianum ranges from Labrador to Georgia, west to Alberta, Minnesota and Arkansas. It is found throughout Wisconsin, although it appears to be uncommon in the southeastern counties. Habitat is often on rocks of various types, or if on soil then usually on steep slopes.