This species is a striking, clump-forming palm native to montane rainforests in the Caribbean, particularly Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles. This variety thrives in high-elevation, humid environments, often growing along steep slopes and cloud forests. It features a slender, ringed trunk with a graceful crown of pinnate leaves that display a silvery underside. A distinguishing characteristic is its partial crownshaft, formed by the tightly clasping bases of its leaf sheaths, giving it a somewhat clean and elegant look near the top of the trunk. The inflorescence emerges below the crownshaft, arching outward and bearing multiple slender branches adorned with small, cream-colored flowers. These flowers eventually give way to small, round, purple-black fruits, which are an important food source for birds and other wildlife. Unlike some of its lowland relatives, this variety is adapted to cooler, wetter conditions and plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil and providing habitat. Its elegant form and ecological benefits make it a valuable species for cloud forest restoration and ornamental plantings in tropical and subtropical climates.