The variegated shape of this cactus presents nuances or spots in the exact points of the epidermis where there is a lack of chlorophyll; such stains will never be identical in plants making each of them unique and for this reason strongly sought after by collectors. In its normal form it is a globe-shaped cactus slightly flattened at the apex and small in size that can reach 9 cm in diameter. It has a dark green stem tending to black, with which the yellow variegation is perfectly associated creating a very attractive contrast. Above the protruding tubercles are small white and fluffy areoles from which emerge its dark radial spines that stiffen with time and reach five centimeters in length. Its funnel-shaped flowers, which grow near the apex, are yellow inside with petals ranging from white to pink-violet.