This is a solitary, nearly trunkless palm that typically grows with its stem remaining subterranean or just barely emerging above the soil surface. When visible, the short stem is covered with the characteristic spiny adventitious roots that define the genus Cryosophila, forming a protective lattice around the trunk. The crown consists of several rigid palmate leaves that are divided into numerous narrow segments radiating from the petiole, giving the foliage a fan-like appearance. The leaves are deep green above with a paler underside, and the petioles may bear small marginal spines. Inflorescences emerge among the leaves and branch into multiple slender rachillae bearing small pale flowers. The palm later produces rounded fruits that ripen to dark purple or black.