[6] Kurokawia palmulata is recognisable by its foliose thallus, which is typically appressed and can grow up to 9–10 cm (3+1⁄2–4 in) in diameter.

The lichen's lower surface starts off white or off-white and gradually darkens to a tawny or light brown shade.

However, care must be taken not to confuse it with similar-looking species like Physconia subpallida – which lacks the positive spot tests that are characteristic of Kurokawia palmulata.

[7] Some species of Heterodermia and Physcia are similar, but they can be distinguished by their K+ (yellow) upper surface spot test reaction, which indicates the presence of atranorin.

[8] Its range extends north to southern Ontario,[9] and the coniferous old-growth forests of southwestern Nova Scotia in Canada.