The name change took place in 2004, so the old name Melanelia exasperata is still in use. This hand-lens view photo shows the characteristic papillae on the upper surface of the thallus, evenly scattered and with flat tops. Simple rhizines can be seen projecting beyond the lobe margins. Apothecia are common on this species and they have discs of reddish brown to dark olive green with thick margins lined with warts. The species tends to be found on acid twigs or on smooth branches. It is found throughout Ireland.