Occurs to 3,000 ft. elevation. Gives desert effect to landscapes. Semishrub or miniature tree. Generally has central stem which becomes trunklike and many short lateral branches.
Central branches are erect, and others horizontal or semi-erect.
Grows as tall as 6 feet. Round areoles are white with yellow glochids, and bear many ferocious spines. Since the spines completely cover the plant, it appears to be a pale golden color. Flowers appear on the tips of the stems at the top of the plant. Fruit is yellow and pear-shaped.