[1] Cochemiea setispina has a gray-green stems that sprouts from the base to form larger clusters.

The zygomorphic flowers are 5 to 6 cm (2.0 to 2.4 in) in size and scarlet red, with prominently protruding stamens.

[2] Cochemiea setispina is widespread in the Mexican state of Baja California, occurring near San Borja, San Julio Canyon, and on the island of Angel de la Guardia at elevations of 0 to 400 meters.

[3] It was first described as Cactus setispinus in 1894 by John Merle Coulter, the specific epithet setispinus derives from the Latin words "seta" (bristly) and "-spinus" (thorny), referring to the slender marginal thorns.

[4] Frederick Arthur Walton reclassified the species into the genus Cochemiea in 1899.