Leaves somewhat crowded above, 0.5--1.5  0.3--0.8 mm; distal adaxial cells enlarged and bulging above; costa with 2--4 guide cells. Seta twisted clockwise, 6--8 mm. Capsule 0.6--1.0 mm; operculum conic-rostrate, inclined, 0.5--0.8 mm; peristome teeth 16, cleft and irregular, erect from very short basal membrane. Calyptra to 1 mm. Spores light brown, 8--12 µm.

Capsules uncommon, maturing in fall (Sept.--Dec.). Calcareous rock, mostly in crevices or rock faces, arid grassland or woodland situations, in pure colonies or gregarious with Crossidium, Aloina, or Barbula. In North America G. globifera is currently known from isolated sites along the Texas-Mexico border but should be expected on calcareous rock in other parts of the Southwest.