This is a large, clustering palm with multiple, cane-like stems that can reach up to 10–12 meters tall, forming dense thickets in its native habitat. There is no crownshaft, and the stems are ringed with leaf scars and armed with sharp spines. The crown is made up of arching pinnate leaves that can be up to 8 meters long, with stiff, lanceolate leaflets that are held in several planes, giving a somewhat plumose effect. The inflorescences are large and branched, bearing numerous small flowers; the male and female flowers are produced on the same plant (monoecious). The fruit develops into spiny, ovoid clusters that contain edible pith and seeds traditionally harvested by local communities.