The tree-like Escontria chiotilla is heavily branched with flat tops, forms clear trunks and reaches a height of 4 to 7 meters.

It has 7 or 8 acute ribs, are densely covered with dark gray, elongated areoles that sometimes flow into one another.

It bears dark red fruit comparable in appearance and texture to Pitaya, but smaller (3,5 cm).

The first plants were discovered in 1864 by Frédéric Albert Constantin Weber, who sent material to George Engelmann.

[4] The botanical name of the genus honors the Mexican engineer and temporary governor of San Luis Potosí Blas Escontria and Bustamante (1848–1906).