The variegated shape of this cactaceae presents the typical yellow zones in the exact points where the chlorophyll is absent; such zones will never be identical from one plant to another, thus making each exemplar absolutely unique and, for this reason, very sought after by collectors. It is a very elegant cactus but at the same time really versatile. Its columnar stem is bright green, at times paler at the apex, equipped with well marked and deep longitudinal ribs along which come out short and medium-long spines. The spines are very thick and cover completely the body of the plant, as if to protect it from external agents. The mature exemplars may ramify and get between the thorns, a down, very similar to hair, which falls down along the stem. At night white flowers bloom really very large, short-lived but with a spectacular and absolutely unique effect!