Variable. Thallus usually pale creamy brown but yellowish-green on copper-rich rocks. Scattered flat to convex areoles that can form continuous crust. There are usually 3 to7 minute apothecia in each areole, red-brown to blackish, margins absent or well developed.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

Occurs on sheltered slightly base-rich siliceous rocks, sites rich in heavy metals and on sheltered stones below metal run-off.

All year round.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.