The spherical, light gray-green shoots reach a diameter of 8 cm (3.1 in) and grow to the same height.

The whitish gray to yellowish thorns arising from the areoles are darker at their base.

The short, funnel-shaped to bell-shaped, yellow, orange or red flowers have a darker throat.

[3] Echinopsis marsoneri is widespread in the Bolivian department of Chuquisaca and the Argentine provinces of Jujuy and Salta at altitudes of 2500 to 4500 meters.

[4] The specific epithet marsoneri honors the Argentine cactus collector Oreste Marsoner.