[2][3] Neoraimondia arequipensis grows like a shrub, branches at the base, and does not form a stem.

The large, upright shoots can reach heights of up to 10 meters, with a diameter of up to 40 centimetres.

The species has the largest areoles of any cactus; up to 10 cm (4 in) long and less than half as wide.

N. arequipensis is endemic to Peru, where it is found in many regions of the country, including Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Hauncavelica, Lima, Lambayique and Piura.

It commonly grows in rocky coastal habitats, desert scrub and inter-Andean valleys at altitudes of between 0 and 2,800 metres above sea level.