[1] Physcia rolandii was formally described by John Elix based on a type specimen he collected north of Tailem Bend in South Australia.

It is closely related to Physcia jackii but can be distinguished by its immaculate (spotless), rough or frosted surface and its unique chemical profile containing 6a,22-dihydroxyhopane-25-oic acid.

[1] The thallus of Physcia rolandii is generally circular or occasionally irregularly shaped, adhering closely to the substrate and ranging from 1 to 6 cm in width.

The upper surface is medium to pale grey, often glossy, with a white, patchy (areolate), scabrid to frosted appearance at the tips.

Fruiting bodies (apothecia) are common, sitting flat at first but becoming wavy (undulate) and distorted as they age, with a dark brown to black, densely frosted (pruinose) disc.