The leaf bases are arranged in three vertical columns set about 120 degrees apart on the main stem, forming a triangular shape in cross section.

What with its colourful flowers and fruit and shapely habit, it is unusually showy for a palm.

It prefers full sun and regular watering, although it is not vulnerable to occasional dryness and partial shade.

[5] Dypsis decaryi does not transplant well, so it is a bad choice for commercial field growing.

[4] Although this species is now commonly cultivated in a variety of climates, there are only about 1,000 individuals left in its native habitat of a small area in Andohahela National Park, southern Madagascar.