The variable-leaved crestwort has pale green translucent leaves, which are bilobed at the bottom of the stem but become notched or completely smooth (no notches and not bilobed) further up the stem.

Structures for asexual reproduction (gemmae) are also sometimes present on the edges of the leaves and bracts.

[1] The variable-leaved crestwort is most frequent in the south of Britain, especially England, although it can be found as far north as Inverness.

It can also be found on the Isle of Man and in some parts of the Republic of Ireland.

Mostly on the base of trees, but also fallen wood, soil, leaf litter and on roots.