A fruticose species with a dark brown to black, glossy thallus that forms prostrate and entangled mats. Towards the base the branching is sparse. The main branches tend to be wider and contorted. Soralia are sparse and tuberculate.
Thallus and medulla: C-, K-
In Scotland, Bryoria chalybeiformis has a widespread, but upland distribution, where it is local on mossy siliceous rocks, and sometimes on horizontal branches. BLS distribution map
scottishlichens.co.uk 