It shrinks in size and disappears under the ground in dry and cold times, making it hard to find for most of the year.

[3] Circular to oval areoles, varying in color from white to brown, may be either villous or glabrate.

Smooth and relatively hard radial spines, numbering 9-15 per areole, spread out and are white, measuring 2-6 mm.

This cactus grows in the San Rafael Swell, a unique geologic feature in central Utah.

[2] Threats to this species include poaching, off-road vehicle use, gypsum mining, and petroleum exploration.