[2] The generic name Glutinoglossum (derived from the Latin glutinosus, meaning "glutinous") refers to the sticky fruit bodies.

The slow-maturing spores are initially hyaline (translucent) and lack septa, but eventually turn brown and develop septation.

[2] Although the viscid ascocarp surface is a helpful field characteristic that can be used to distinguish Glutinoglossum species, the character is not strictly unique to this genus–Geoglossum difforme also has sticky fruit bodies, but it is a member of the Geoglossum clade.

The type G. glutinosum is widely distributed, having been reported from Australia,[4] Africa, Asia, Europe, New Zealand, and North America.

European sightings are commonly associated with pastures and dune slacks, while in North America the fungus is often reported with hardwood trees.

[2] New Zealand Glutinoglossum species have been parasitized by the fungus Hypomyces papulasporae, which appears as a white, cottony mycelium that extends to the base of the stipe.