The Caudex: It forms a highly swollen, flask-shaped or globose base that grows up to 1–2 meters (3 to 6 feet) tall in nature, though it remains a manageable size in cultivation. The pale green-to-grey trunk tapers abruptly into few, thick branches.
The Spines: The stems are densely armed with short, stout, paired spines that feature curved, broad bases. They are designed to trap moisture from morning fogs.
Foliage: It features large, leathery, obovate leaves that form a dense cluster at the very tips of the branches. They are bright green with a pale, prominent central vein running down the middle.
The Crimson Blooms: In late spring and summer, it produces spectacular clusters of 3 to 17 long-tubed, deep red or pinkish-crimson flowers with a distinct pale yellow or white eye in the throat.
