Acrocomia aculeata, is a tall, robust palm that grows 12–20 meters (40–65 feet) high. It features a thick, solitary trunk covered with long, sharp black spines and is topped with a crown of arching, feather-like long fronds. The fronds are dark green above and lighter underneath. It produces small yellowish flowers and round, green to yellow fruits.

Native to a wide range of tropical and subtropical regions in the Americas, from Mexico to Argentina, the macaw palm thrives in a variety of soils and prefers full sun. It is extremely drought-tolerant, wind-resistant, and adapts well to poor soils.