The Epithelantha complex contains small species that are widely distributed from eastern Arizona to Texas and south to San Luis Potosi, and variety greggii, which has the largest body within the complex, occurs primarily within Coahuila. The globular stem is covered with many rows of small tubercles tipped with white spines, set so close together that the green epidermis is mostly hidden. The flowers are pink and develop from the apex. The fruit are elongated bright red pods. These seedlings are in 2-inch pots.