Flattened globose cactus to 12 inches or so with pale pink or white flowers. Stem is green or blue-green and solitary with 10-30+ ribs and raised, rounded tubercles. Spines emerge brownish, reddish or blackish and fade to gray. 1-3 straight central spines, 10-15 curved radial spines clasping the stem. From northern Argentina. Two former subpecies (the type and tilcarense, from a limited area near Tilcara) have been reduced to synonymy with the species.

This is a very large plant for the genus and relatively common in cultivation. The spines are attractive and mature plants look great in bloom. Provide ample space and good drainage in containers.

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