Leslie Japanese crested bird's nest fern is a large epiphytic or terrestrial plant that has wide strappy fronds that roll out from the central rosette. As the plant grows larger the shape becomes more like a nest. Bird's nest ferns are native to the rainforests of eastern Africa, southern and eastern Asia and Australasia. They are most commonly seen growing on tree branches or clefts where they thrive in the moist leaf detritus, humid conditions, and filtered light.

The fronds of Leslie Bird's nest fern become ruffled with size and age, reaching up to five feet in length. These ferns prefer bright shade and a moist but not wet growing medium. If growing in soil allow to dry out between watering. This fern is exceptionally tender and must be overwintered in a location that has bright indirect light and is warm but not drafty.