A tiny, globose-flattened miniature cactus. Stems typically measure just 4–5 cm in height and width on their own roots, though mature clusters can form large clumps up to 50 cm in diameter via lateral offsets.
Features 14 to 19 heavily tuberculate, spiraled ribs. It lacks central spines but displays 10 to 15 flexible, creamy-white pectinate radial spines that curve slightly backward toward the stem.
Produces slender, funnelform cream-white flowers up to 9 cm long. They bloom mostly between April and August, opening at night and giving off a highly pleasant, sweet scent. These are followed by plump, club-shaped white fruits.
