The thallus is aureolate and generally flat but with some wartiness.It is glossy and pale grey/brown. Apothecia are usually abundant and are up to 1mm in diameter and dark brown to black, though pale when wet.

C+ (stains faint pink)

Mainly an upland species on well-lit siliceous rocks. Rarely on sawn wood.

All year round.

Widespread in northern and western Britain, but seems to be less frequent in other areas.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.