It can be distinguished from the closely related C. calcarifer (Splendid Tree Frog) by having small green lichen-like markings on its dorsal surfaces rather than white or pale blue spots and lacking characteristic dark ventral markings found on the under-thighs of C. calcarifer which are characteristic of only that species of Cruziohyla.

DNA analysis places C. sylviae genetically closer to its sister species, C. craspedopus, than to the true C. calcarifer described by George A. Boulenger in 1902.

The type locality for the species is Guayacán in Limón province of Costa Rica.

Until 2018 the species was confused with the splendid tree frog (C. calcarifer), which occurs from Ecuador to Costa Rica.

The female frog lays eggs in water collected in dead trees.