[2] Oreocereus leucotrichus grows as a shrub with numerous, upwardly curved shoots branching from the base and forming dense groups.

The spines arising from the areoles are strong, yellowish to chestnut brown or orange and do not turn gray with age.

The spherical to slightly elongated fruits are reddish yellow to yellowish green and have a diameter of 4 to 6 cm (1.6 to 2.4 in).

[3] Oreocereus leucotrichus is widespread in the Peruvian regions of Ayacucho and Arequipa as well as in northern Chile at altitudes of 2000 to 3500 meters.

The specific epithet leucotrichus comes from Greek, means 'white-haired' and refers to the white hairs that cover the species.