The species of the genus Neobuxbaumia grow tree-like, branched or unbranched, have a well-defined trunk of up to 30 centimeters in diameter and reach stature heights of up to 15 meters. The strong, cylindrical, gray-green shoots have numerous, low ribs and tight-fitting areoles. The thorns are stiff or pliable. The small cylindrical to bell-shaped flowers are white or pink and open during the day. Its flower cup and the flower tube have rather large humps, have small fleshy scales and are bare at the flowering time or occupied with few bristles. The egg-shaped fruits are thorny, tear vertically and have a perennial remnant of flowers. They contain a white, dry pulp. The seeds are light or dark brown and shiny.