Individual flowers are large with five sepals and five purple-pink petals, measuring up 5 cm (2 in) long.

[4] Rhodolaena coriacea is only found in the eastern regions of Sava, Vatovavy-Fitovinany, Alaotra-Mangoro and Analanjirofo.

[4] Rhodolaena coriacea is threatened by timber exploitation and threats to the lemur population.

Future population decline of the tree due to habitat loss is predicted at 50% to 80%, though some subpopulations are considered secure in protected areas.

Threats to lemurs would in turn affect the tree's reproduction due to their role in seed dispersal.