Spiny, much-branched, succulent shrub, ± 3 m high, not arborescent. Cladodes flattened, orbicular, 200-400 mm in diam., glaucous-green; areoles dense, sub-spirally arranged, with 3-6 spines, the longest ± 20 mm long. Flowers yellow. Flowering time Nov., Dec. Fruit small berries, ± 25 mm long.
A cactus.