The Giant Fern or “Chipe” grows at an altitude of 1,300 to 3,200 meters, in thick and very humid woodlands of mountains and pluvial areas, because water is indispensable for the ovules' fecundation. This plant is mainly found in the Verapaces, Chiquimula, Zacapa, Jalapa, El Quiché, Huehuetenango, and San Marcos.

Sthis tree has compound and very divided leaves. It lacks flowers or seeds

Its body can reach up to 15 meters , and it's formed by interwoven roots and old leaves. Its body is generally used to make flowerpots.