A large monopodial tree native to Western Ghats. Trunk reaches up to height 30-50 ft., grayish-brown and covered with persistent leaf bases. The leaves appear in crown, bipinnate, leaflets are characteristically divided into multiple segments resembling shape of fishtail, hence the common name. Inflorescence is a large and branched structure that emerges from the top of the trunk. It bears numerous small, cream-colored flowers that are arranged densely on the branches of the inflorescence. Fruits are round, yellowish green turning purplish-black when ripe. The ripen fruit pulp contain raphides, responsible for itching. Fruits are eaten by Civet Cat.