Schizolaena exinvolucrata grows as a tree up to 15 metres (50 ft) tall.

[3] The involucre is thought to attract lemurs, bats and birds who in turn disperse the tree's seeds.

[1] Schizolaena exinvolucrata is known only from the eastern regions of Atsimo-Atsinanana, Vatovavy-Fitovinany, Alaotra-Mangoro, Analanjirofo, Atsinanana and Anosy.

Its habitat is humid and subhumid forests from sea-level to 1,000 m (3,300 ft) altitude.

[2] Schizolaena exinvolucrata is threatened by deforestation due to shifting patterns of agriculture.