Rhodolaena acutifolia grows as a small tree or shrub.

[3] Its leaves are small, subcoriaceous, elliptic in shape, tapering to a point and sharp at the base.

[3][4] Individual flowers are very large with bright purple-pink petals, measuring up 5 cm (2 in) long.

[4] Rhodolaena acutifolia is only found in the east central regions of Analamanga, Alaotra-Mangoro and Analanjirofo.

Due to shifting cultivation, future habitat loss is predicted at up to 50%.