Thallus is a strong, wiry, bushy plant that grows in dense, low mats or in tightly packed clumps. Branches with a diameter of 1-3 mm, cylindrical to slightly compressed, joined by tiny adhesive cushions. Branch tips taper to sharp ends; spine- or spur-like, many, developing in any direction. Initially cushion-like, holdfast is mostly secured to nearby branches by pads. Dark to light purple-red in hue, with iridescence that can occasionally be blue or green.