This clustering palm produces multiple slender trunks with a slightly cane-like appearance, each ringed and emerging from a tight clump.  It has no crownshaft, and its colorful leaf bases and new emerging leaves are the main visual highlight.  The crown features leaves that emerge in brilliant shades of pink or red before maturing to deep green, with gracefully arching leaflets with long tips and smooth petioles.  Its inflorescence emerges below the leaves and is branched, bearing both male and female flowers on the same plant.  The fruit is small, oval, and typically turns reddish or orange when ripe, complementing the vibrant new foliage.  This species is highly sought after in tropical collections for its intense, ornamental leaf color, though it remains rare in cultivation.