Stem segments broadly obovate to circular, (4-)8.5-12 × (4-)5.5-11 cm; areoles 6-11 per diagonal row across midstem segment, 6-13 mm apart. Spines in most areoles, of 2 kinds: major spines (0-)1-3(-5) per areole, ± deflexed to reflexed or porrect at stem segment apex, yellow-brown to gray, 20-35(-40) mm; minor spines 0-5 per areole, deflexed, white, 5-10(-16) mm, sometimes spines of basal and near basal areoles are long, flexible, curling. Fruits stout; areoles 12-28, most bearing (4-)6-15 spines, 5-10 mm. 2n = 22, 44.