This species occurs on the islands of Bonaire and Curaçao. It is a solitary palm with a pale gray trunk that tapers upwards. Its crown is a compact group of up to forty pale green leaves, mostly emerging from the top of the trunk. It is notable for its short, stout petioles. When in bloom, the inflorescences often extend beyond the leaves. The large, spherical fruit turns black when it becomes fully ripe. Due to its extremely small natural habitats, this species is considered vulnerable.