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 generally solitary cactus, which develops in height with growth and tends to tilt when it reaches remarkable lengths. It comes in many variations: the color of the thorns varies from golden to dark brown and their thickness can be different. The Neoporteria subgibbosa has a body formed by tuberculate ribs, of a color varying from the dark green to the violaceous, and large and woolly whitish areoles. The flowering is unusual as it takes place at the end of winter, with funnel-shaped flowers on the shades of pink and magenta.