The species name basalis refers to the position of the diahyphal mass at the base of a hyaline, setose hyphophore.

Placement in the genus Echinoplaca is supported by the presence of thin white setae/hyphophore scales and the structure of the diahyphae.

[2] The thallus of Echinoplaca basalis is continuous but marginally dispersed or deeply lobed, measuring 2–5 mm across and 15–25 μm thick.

Although apothecia have not been observed in this species, it has distinctive diahyphal masses at the base of the hyaline, setose hyphophore.

It grows on the leaf blades of Sabal palmetto in live oak hammocks near nature trails and picnic areas.