[2] Agaricus subrutilescens has a cap that is 5–15 cm (2–6 in) across, dry, and has many wine to brown colored fibrils, especially near the center.

[3] The gills are close and white at first, turning pinkish and then dark brown in age.

[3] The purplish fibrous cap and shaggy white stem differentiate this mushroom from others which resemble it.

[3] This mushroom is variously described as edible,[3] inedible,[5] or responsible for causing gastric upset.

[6] The mushroom fruits in undisturbed mixed woods in Western North America and Japan.