It grows in submontane to montane forest in damp areas, particularly near the tree line.

Sori occur in two rows, one along each side of the fertile pinnule midvein, and lack indusia.

Plants form a thicket with no sign of a trunk.

[2] In cultivation, this species requires rich humus, good shade and much moisture.

[2] The specific epithet colensoi commemorates William Colenso (1811–1899), a missionary and New Zealand botanist.