[3]  It has long-creeping rhizomes covered in red-brown hairs, that give rise to fronds at intervals of 20–200 mm.

[3] Reproductive structures, called sori, are approximately round and protected by lamina flaps.

[5] The structure of the sori is representative of the genus Hypolepis (hypo is Latin for under, and lepis for scale).

[9] Ferns prefer soils high in organic matter, with good aeration, and consistent access to water.

[9] H. ambigua specifically thrives in disturbed soils such as those found in urban areas and forest clearings.

[2] There is limited research on specific pests and diseases of H. ambigua, however, in general the majority of herbivores that feed on ferns are arthropods.

[10] Some common pests of ferns are aphids, mealybugs, millipedes, mites, scale insects, pill bugs, and slugs.