This species is listed as Vulnerable based on population size as approximately 900 mature individuals are known for all the subpopulations at Mantadia, Vondrozo and Tolagnaro. The species also has a small extent of occurrence (<16,000 km²), is known from three locations and there is continuing decline due to threats to the habitat. Further information on the range and threats to this species may show that it qualifies for a more threatened status.

Endemic to Madagascar, where it occurs in the eastern rainforests between Tolagnaro and Mantadia. Occurs at elevations ranging from 1 to 1,200 m asl.

Severely fragmented; three populations are known and the number of individuals varies greatly between them. In total , there are about 900 estimated mature individuals.

Grows in lowland and montane forest, with slightly open canopy usually in poor soils overlying white sand or on podzolized ridge-tops.

This palm is threatened by the cutting of mature individuals for the edible "heart" in Mantadia region. A part of its habitat is included within the mining area managed by QMM (Qit Madagascar Minerals) in Tolagnaro.

The species is used for a wide variety of purposes: weaving, house construction, food and ornamental plant.

The species is protected within the National Park of Mantadia, the site in Vondrozo is managed by the local population and some parts of the population in Sainte Luce are included in the QMM conservation site. The species is listed on CITES Appendix II which covers all parts including seeds.