The large, flat and rounded leaves are divided 1/5-1/4 into many stiff-tipped segments, with the abaxial surface incompletely covered with scattered fuzz.

[3] Joseph Rock found Pritchardia beccariana in December 1914 by Glenwood near Kīlauea at about 3,500 feet (1,100 m) elevation and formally named and described it in 1916, honoring his friend and coworker Odoardo Beccari.

Thus, Beccari concluded that the differences were insufficient to erect a new species, although he did establish the variety giffardiana to honor Giffard and recognize its smaller stature.

The immature fruits, called hāwane or wāhane, were gathered and the endosperm was eaten (tasting like coconut meat).

[3] Pritchardia beccariana is also grown with some level of success as a landscape palm in tropical and subtropical areas.