The scrub habitat preferred by the bird has declined due to increased agricultural activity.

It is adapted to the occasional wildfire that naturally occurs in the scrub habitat.

It grows in chaparral and coastal and inland scrub habitat.

However, the scrub habitat which it prefers is among the most degraded in Madagascar, and its population centers are largely outside of protected areas.

It is found in forest, gardens and open scrub habitats.

It is encircled with mangrove and has an interior of dry scrub habitat, where it gets its name.

It is a plant of coastal scrub habitat.

Remaining populations of the cactus can now be found in sandy scrub habitat.

It also has been found in scrub habitats, coconut plantations, and in some cases agricultural areas.

The main threat to the species is the loss of its scrub habitat to development and silviculture.