The specific epithet versutus is derived from the Latin word versut (clever), which may be a reference to the ability of the fungus to correctly orient itself for growth depending on the position of its growing surface.

The gills radiate from an eccentric or lateral point of attachment, medium broad, and tend to swell in the middle.

The basidiospores are 7–11 x 4.5–6 μm in size, ellipsoid in shape, marked with very small spots, and yellowish to yellowish-brown under microscopic view.

(Description adapted from Hesler & Smith, 1965[5]) This species may usually be found on the bark of deciduous wood in damp, shaded places.

[6] Crepidotus applanatus, the so-called "flat crep", is larger, with a shell-shaped cap, more closely spaced gills, and has conspicuous white mycelial threads at the point of attachment.