The Blue hesper palm is single trunk fan palm growing slowly to 30-40 ft. tall with 24-30 in. diameter trunks. Distinctive fan-shaped fronds are chalky blue-gray in color with sharp spines on the petioles; fronds persist on the trunk until removed. Long and arching creamy-yellow inflorescences occur for several weeks in summer for a dramatic display; colorful orange fruit to 1 in. diameter mature by the end of summer.

The Blue hesper palm is quite rare in nature where it is restricted to several small canyons and desert slope areas of northwestern Baja California. In contrast, it is a popular palm in Inland Valley landscapes and gardens as an accent tree due to its distinctive flower and foliage character. It is used as a focal plant and entry accent in containers and raised planters; large specimens take many years to develop. It prefers full sun, well-drained soils and periodic summer irrigation.