[1] It first described in 1961 by botanist Mario H. Ricardi Salinas[1] and is native to Arequipa and Moquegua.

[2] It is the only member of Malesherbia that grows outside of the Andes.

[3] It grows up to 15 cm tall and has white flowers.

[3][4] As of 2006, the species is considered vulnerable in Arequipa, but is not under protection.

[2] Malesherbia arequipensis has been recorded hybridizing with M. ardens, the offspring show intermediate flower sizes, but have coloration similar to M. arequipensis; the offspring are likely sterile on the basis of malformed seeds.