This is the commonest rock species of Orthotrichum and grows on base-rich rocks (such as Carboniferous limestone) and artificial walls, buttresses etc., usually in exposed situations. It forms neat dark-green cushions with abundant capsules projecting only a little distance from the cushions, on short setae. The leaves are wide toward the base, tapering gently to an obtuse tip, with a small point, or apiculus. The nerve is strong, and runs for most of the leaf length.