The lichen was formally described as a new species in by lichenologists Bibiana Moncada and Luis Fernando Coca.

The type specimen was collected near Monte Zancudo (Tatamá National Natural Park, Risaralda) at an altitude of 2,800 m (9,200 ft).

The species epithet alludes to the dense, sizable cyphellae that are highly visible across a significant portion of the underside.

[3] Sticta macrocyphellata typically grows in semi-exposed microsites in subandine to andine forests, at elevations ranging from 2,200 to 3,400 m (7,200 to 11,200 ft).

Sticta macrocyphellata commonly grows on rocks and bark and is often associated with bryophytes such as Plagiochila, Lophocolea, Bazzania, Omphalanthus, and Macromitrium.