Scolopendra hardwickei can reach a length of. Antennas consist of 17 or 18segments, of which the first 6-7 are shiny. It is a pigmented species, with exceptionally bright and contrasting coloration, alternating dark orange and deep black segments, with darkorange legs. The head and antennae or also dark orange, but the first six segments of the antennae are generally of a lighter hue.