Cespitose plant with nearly globose aerial stems, dark green (turning brown-green in sun). Oval, sunken areoles with cream felt. 3 stout, central spines (sometimes hooked), 8-10 pectinate radial spines. Pastel yellow flowers with pale reddish tops.

Distribution and habitat: 
Found in Argentina, specifically in the border area between Neuquén and Mendoza provinces, located to the east of the Domuyo volcano, at elevations ranging from 2350 to 2500 meters.

This cactus is naturally very cold-hardy: it can tolerate temperatures down to –17 °C thanks to its adaptability to arid environments and extreme temperature fluctuations.