This is a clustering palm that forms dense thickets of multiple slender stems, often creating nearly impenetrable stands in its native habitat. The trunks are relatively thin and are typically covered by persistent leaf bases and fibers, giving the palm a rugged appearance. The crown consists of pinnate leaves with stiff, narrow leaflets arranged along armed petioles bearing sharp spines near the base. Branched inflorescences emerge among the leaves and produce numerous small cream-colored flowers that are pollinated by insects. The fruits are small, oval dates that ripen from green to reddish-brown or black and are readily consumed by wildlife. This species is notable for its remarkable adaptation to tidal environments and is one of the few palms commonly associated with mangrove ecosystems.  Though not uncommon in habitat, it is very rarely seen in cultivation.