Turbinicarpus alonsoi grows singly with spherical bodies 6 to 9 centimeters in diameter and a poorly developed taproot.

The first description by Charles Edward Glass (1934–1998) and Salvador Arias Montes was published in 1996.

[4] The specific epithet alonsoi honors Alonso Garcia Luna, who discovered the species.

Turbinicarpus alonsoi is easily grown in cultivation, however due to its large taproot, it requires porous soil with plenty of inorganic material such as stones and dries as quickly as possible.

Full sun to part shade is preferred, as it will encourage slow, compact and steady growth during spring and summer months.