The plant grows in terrestrial but swampy habitats along streams in evergreen forests.

These roots emerge from the base of the main trunk and bend downwards to reach the ground.

The leaves are simple, alternate that grow on short stalks or petioles that are 2–4 cm long.

These swamps remain water-logged for a large part of the year between June and January.

Myristica magnifica is one of the dominant species of these swamps in Southern India.