[1][2] Commonly called lace fern (Hawaiian: pala'ā, palae, or palapala'ā), it is native from India to Hawai'i, and south to Sumatra, Borneo and the Philippines, as well as other parts of the tropics and sub-tropics.

[1] It is commonly found in forest openings and disturbed areas such as landslides, along trails or roads.

It grows in moist, shady areas from sea level to an elevation of 4,000 feet.

It is made into a lei using the hili, or hilo technique - a braiding or plaiting method with only one type of plant material.

It is also made into haku with other plants using the wili or winding method and a backing.