Common crystalwort is a small, non-vascular liverwort with a distinctive thallose structure often found in moist, shady habitats. The flattened body, called a thallus, embraces the substrate, showcasing green to yellow-green hues. Notably, common crystalwort reproduces through gemmae cups, making survival in variable conditions more feasible. Its simplicity and resilience mark it as a pioneer species in some ecosystems.