This succulent has abnormalities in the shape or lack of thorns due to its monstrous shape, in addition to this it has spots or streaks in places where there is lack of chlorophyll typical of the variegated form. Overall, its two peculiarities make this plant truly unique and much sought after by collectors. In its normal form, it is a solitary-bearing cactus, which may occasionally become attached to the base. Its stem, light green tending to olive green, slightly concave at the apex, has multiple slender ribs, well furrowed and with a very wavy shape, equipped with very woolly areoles of white color. The radial spines are thin and white, while the central spines are much longer tending upwards, with a yellow color. The flowering takes place at the apex of the plant, generating small funnel-shaped flowers of a yellow-greenish or, occasionally, purple color.