[4] The thallus of Umbilicaria aprina is single-leaved (monophyllous), shield-shaped (peltate), and rigid, measuring up to 6 cm (2.4 in) in diameter.

The upper surface is light grey, typically featuring radiating ridges from the central, elevated point known as the umbo.

This lower surface is covered with single-celled reproductive propagules known as thalloconidia and adorned with white rhizinomorphs—root-like extensions that are unbranched or sparsely branched and densely populate the rim.

[4] Umbilicaria aprina is commonly found in the high alpine regions near glaciers and is present worldwide, including extreme arctic and Antarctic areas.

The species grows on boulders in these cold, exposed environments, which helps it avoid competition and survive in harsh conditions.