Rhapis is a genus of about 10 species of small palms native to southeastern Asia from southern Japan and southern China south to Sumatra. The species are commonly known as lady palms. They are fan palms, with the leaves with a bare petiole terminating in a rounded fan of numerous leaflets. Rhapis subtilis is rare variety and is uniquely shaped fingers on the fronds are short, very wide and reverse cupped, similar to the shape of an umbrella. This rare cultivar is perfect for bringing a tropical ambiance into the urban home or office. Shiny green leaves are deeply divided into strap-like segments and are held erect by a stiff stem. It needs little care and can survive brief periods of drought. It can tolerate harsh interior conditions and still look fresh.