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The few studies on the evolution of epiphytism in ferns have mostly focused on xerophytic and humus-collecting strategies, neglecting hygrophytes that are abundant in rainforests, such as the trichomanoids (Hymenophyllaceae). Using a phylogenetic approach, we studied the acquisition of epiphytism in this lineage, with the aim of identifying ecological anatomical adaptations and verifying the regressive epiphytic ‘bryophyte-like’ strategy previously suggested for the group. Inferred evolution of anatomy and morphology, regression and ecology (more particularly colonial epiphytism) were analysed and compared using a maximum likelihood approach. Regressive evolution of anatomy and morphology is revealed in the three clades of colonial epiphytes, probably linked to the selection of water acquisition by blades rather than by regressed roots. However, the ‘bryophyte-like’ strategy is restricted to some taxa (especially Didymoglossum). Furthermore, a relationship is revealed between large metaxylem and climbing habit. Diversification of colonial epiphytes (and some individual epiphytes) and hemi-epiphytism would have occurred in the upper Cretaceous and Tertiary, in accordance with the timing of diversification of modern ferns and the evolution of epiphytism in other fern families in the first angiosperm-dominated forests. This was here performed by selecting hygrophilous strategies that are unique in vascular plants. © 2013 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2013, 173, 573–593.