It is a succulent plant. It can grow3-6 ft high and 4-6 ft across. It flowers once in life develops a massive flower cluster on a robust flowering stem. Leaves are very large long and narrow, 30-90 cm long, 15-25 cm wide, fleshy and succulent, margins coarsely toothed, leaf apex with dark-brown coloured 1-5-2 cm long spine. Inflorescence is terminal panicle.

It can be grown on various types of wastelands. It is a good soil holder, prevents erosion of bunds, railway embankments and barren slopes. It is recommended for social forestry.