The genus Gymnocarpium includes 8 species distributed in temperate aeras of northern hemisphere. It is a genus characterized by its little triangular fronds, light green, velvety, horizontal, on a thin stipe. The rhizome is thin and creeping. Sori are arranged on the pinnae underside, without indusium. The Gymnocarpium form carpets in shade, among rocks, or in cool and moist woodlands.