This tree-like cactus can grow up to 9 m tall, with stems up to 12 cm in diameter.[1] Depending on the cactus, the color of the fruit vary from white, yellow, red, and purple being the hardest to find.
Its fruit is edible to humans and is considered good tasting. It is planted as an ornamental and as a living fence in warm regions. When used as a fence, it can be impervious to animals due to its spiny nature.