[1] The Xiquexique genus comprises cacti that range from columnar to shrubby in shape.

Their main stems grow upright, often with arched branches that run parallel to the ground.

These stems typically have 4-15 ribs, and their fruits commonly display floral remnants that stand erect rather than being sunken into the apex of the pericarp.

This morphological distinction from Pilosocereus is characterized by Xiquexique's candelabra-like branching stems, sinuated ribs, and the absence of sunken floral remnants on the fruit pericarp.

In 2020, a phylogenetic analysis by Lavor, Calvente, and Versieux led to the elevation of the subgenus to its own genus, named Xiquexique.