Opinions differ on the suitability of this mushroom for the table, some guides hold it in high regard, while others view it with caution.

The genus name is derived from the Greek 'γομφος' gomphos meaning "plug" or "large wedge-shaped nail".

With a salmon-coloured cap, it is native to northern and central Idaho as far south as Payette National Forest.

[10] Another similar-looking species is Hygrophorus hypothejus, found in similar habitat though with yellow gills which do not separate from the cap.

[9][11] The North American species Gomphidius smithii is similar but has a pale purple to wine-coloured cap.

[8] Gomphidius glutinosus is found in Eurasia and North America up to elevations of 9600 ft, and is generally abundant across its range.

[6] Like other members of the family Gomphidiaceae, Gomphidius glutinosus has been thought to be ectomycorrhizal, forming symbiotic relationship with their host trees.

[12] However, there is now evidence that many (and perhaps all) species in this group are parasitic upon ectomycorrhizal boletes, in relationships that are often highly species-specific, such as Gomphidius roseus upon Suillus bovinus.

[13] Opinions differ on the suitability of this mushroom for the table, some guides hold it in high regard,[11] while others view it with caution.