Forms compact to loose cushions comprising distinct, coarse, rounded main branches and thinner, smaller secondary branches. Often pale or reddish brown. Locally common in upland habitats in the north and west, on rocks, peaty soils and sometimes on mossy trees

References: 
Smith, C.W. et al. editors (2009) The Lichens of Great Britain and Irelandd
Dobson, F.S. (2018) Lichens: an Illustrated Guide to the British and Irish Species