This exemplar is very sought after by collectors for its varied shape: the eye-catching shades lighter, due to the lack of chlorophyll make it unique in its kind. In its normal form, G. marsoneri is a globe-shaped, flattened cactus that grows to 14 cm in diameter, with pronounced tubercles where areoles and fluff form. The spines are usually 5-7 in number, slightly curved towards the body, of a color that fades from yellowish to dark brown, up to blackish on the tip. Its flowers are cream white.