The crested form of Parodia aureispina generally looks like one or more fans, characterized by having spines of a brighter yellow color at the apex of the crest. On the other hand, the normal shape of this cactus has a globular green body, which is characterized by yellow flowers and by white and round areoles. Hooked spines of the typical golden color, so loved by green collectors, grow from the areoles. As spines get closer to the apex of the cactus, they tend to darken, creating the characteristic brownish central tuft. At the same time, the whole body of the plant is also covered with very thin white radial spines.