[1] The specific epithet (microphylla) was named for the plant's small (micro) leaves (phylla).

[2] It can be found growing in oak and pine woods in Mexico or low thickets and exposed rocky places in Guatemala between 1,200 and 3,800 meters (3,900 and 12,500 feet) in elevation.

It is suitable for acid, neutral, and basic soils, and grows best in light and semi-shade conditions.

[4] The plant is variable but usually grows erect, although in more shady woodland can develop climbing habits with stems 500 centimeters (16 feet) long.

Plants in the section Encliandra are defined by the protrusion of only four stamens from the flower tube, rather than eight.