Thallus dark green/brown to blackish brown, shining green at the margins, older parts becoming clothed with dense, velvety isidia.

Until recently, this was considered as subspecies with Melanelixia glabratula which is similar. However M. glabratula is more green than brown with pale green shining margins and usually grows on trees.

Siliceous rocks.

All year.

Widespread and locally common.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.