This is a small, understory palm native to humid rainforests. Growing beneath the forest canopy, this species has evolved broad, deeply pleated leaves that efficiently capture limited sunlight in shaded environments. Mature palms typically develop a short, slender trunk making them well suited to smaller gardens, conservatories, and tropical plant collections.  One of its most distinctive features is its remarkable foliage. The leaves are broad, strongly corrugated, and rich green in color. Newly emerging leaves can be particularly attractive, frequently displaying a pinkish hue. The inflorescence develops at the base of the leaves and ranges in color from orange to brown. The fruit varies from green to purple and turns to black when ripe.