[3] Placomaronea candelarioides has a leaf-like (foliose) structure, uniquely anchored by a single point, a trait referred to as umbilicate and monophyllous.

Though most specimens adhere to this typical appearance, some have shown variations, such as having numerous individual, little branched, and ascending lobes that attach to the substratum at the base.

These lobes sometimes have smaller offshoots or lobules and can occasionally take on a round shape, layering over each other and forming cushion-like clusters.

The colour of the lichen's upper surface ranges from dark yellow to brownish-yellow, presenting a smooth, shiny, and unpigmented appearance.

[4] In chemical spot tests, the lichen reacts weakly red when a solution of potassium hydroxide (K) is applied, a feature helpful for its identification.