The crested shape of this plant is quite rare, characterized by a fan arrangement, sometimes almost spiral, different from the other genera, as it is more compact, but equally fascinating and particular. In its normal form it is a very attractive cactacea, with a solitary habit and of a globular shape, which over time can become slightly columnar. It is a cactus that usually does not exceed 14 cm in diameter, the epidermis is light green with numerous rounded ribs. Small thin, bristle-like spines emerge from very downy white areoles, of a color that fades from white to brownish-yellow. In spring, it blooms with pinkish flowers with a yellowish throat.