Clustering high-climbing thicket-forming rattan palm with scandent stem to 40m. Pinnate leaves to 3.5m long, greenish-brown sheath covered in black spines to 35mm diameter, cirriferous leaves armed on both surfaces to 3.5mm long, bristly leaflets to 350mm x 15m, 100 per side. Terminal inflorescences to 350mm x 150mm with bracts, spadix to 35mm long with spines, female flowers 5mm long. Reddish-brown baked fruit to 14mm diameter x 18mm covered in reddish-brown scales with darker tips.
Cane for furniture, leaves for thatch