It often grows in rings on needle litter, usually late in the year.

The cap is umbilicated with a down turned margin, rarely funnel shaped.

The flesh is watery, grey and has a rancid smell.

The Latin vibicina means "with weals or welts (vibices)" and would seem to describe the slightly raised striations of the cap.

Clitocybe ditopus is larger, with a grey cap when moist and white when dry.