[2] Matucana oreodoxa usually grows solitary with spherical, grass-green to dark green shoots and reaches a diameter of up to 8 cm (3.1 in) and a height of 8-15 cm (5.9 in) tall.

There are seven to twelve flattened ribs, which are divided into round bumps.

The straight to slightly curved, flexible, brownish spines turn gray with age.

The egg-shaped, light green fruits reach a diameter of up to 8 mm (0.31 in).

[3][4] Matucana oreodoxa is found in the Peruvian region of Ancash in the valley of the Río Puchca at altitudes of 1800 to 3000 meters.