A coastal fern confined in the northern part of its range to only the most exposed situations. Further south it grows not only on exposed cliffs but also in coastal vegetation where it often forms an important association with Hebe elliptica and Blechnum durum. Frequently associated with sea bird colonies. Easily grown but generally rather slow. A spectacular pot plant. Thrives with added poultry manure, thus simulating its common habitat of coastal seabird colonies.