Lesser Screw-moss grows in low, dense, dull green patches 0.5 to 3 cm tall. The 2 mm long leaves spread when moist, and twist when dry. They are somewhat constricted around the middle, and the margins are recurved for about three-quarters of their length. The tip is blunt, rounded, and has a notch from where the hair point projects in a long, toothed, silvery hair point. The cylindrical capsules are very rare.

Usually on trees, but also on stones, walls and concrete paths. 

All year round.

This species is infrequent in Britain and has a scattered distribution.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.