[1] Growing as an epiphyte or lithophyte, its green fronds are up to 1.22 metres (4 ft 0 in) in length.
This fern develops two types of fronds, some of which near the base of the plant are shorter, sterile, and rust-colored which form a basket-like shape that trap moisture and organic components that nourish it.
[2] Especially in colder weather, this basket acts as prime habitat for animals such as the Amethystine python.
[3] The rhizomes of A. rigidula are sometimes used in traditional medicine as a folk remedy, and do have some antioxidant properties though valid medical application has yet to be found through pharmacological studies.
[4][5][6] Media related to Drynaria rigidula at Wikimedia Commons