The midribs of the Blechnum capense fronds in view are dark, only new growth near the tips being green. The leaflets overlap, all tilted towards the vertical, shielding the forward margin of each leaflet on the ascending frond below the next higher leaflet. Leaflet midribs show as pleats from base to tip along the dully shining leaflet surfaces. Some irregular waving and scalloping occur at the leaflet margins.

Frond colouring lends brightness to shaded areas under trees, a feature sought after by gardeners.