This species of sect. Phlegmacioides (=Variecolores) resembles C. largus, to which it is closely related, but differs by complete lack of violaceous blue colours on the cap. It has a yellow alcaline reaction in the flesh, which is typical for the section.

It was originally described from Castanea forests of central Germany, but it is also found in association with Fagus.

The gills are sometimes more bluish than on the present specimens.