Its small size and the inflexed leaf apex characterize Itatiella ulei.

When this species grows directly exposed to sun at high elevations, it presents a similar aspect but can be distinguished based on the distal lamella cells which are single and rhombic.

This species is growing directly exposed to sun at high elevations present a similar aspect but can be distinguished based on the distal lamella cells which are single and rhombic.

It can be found in some areas in the states of Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Itatiella ulei can be found in growing on the soil at the margins of montane forest and high campos in the Bioma Mata Atlântica, between 900 and 2,890 m alt.