The possible North American variety has a more salmon to pink color with scant watery milk and a strong smell of maple syrup or caramel.

Some confusion with the species Lactarius quietus var incanus is possible due to the similar smell.

S The velvety cap is initially slightly convex (planoconvex), becoming funnel-shaped (infundibuliform) as it matures; it is 4–15 cm (1½–4 in) in diameter and has a faint zonate (bull's-eye) pattern, beige or light grey at the margins and darkening toward the centre.

[3] Fruiting bodies are found in groups in woodlands near conifers such as Picea and Pinus, as well as the deciduous birch (Betula) and rarely beech (Fagus).

[1] Symptoms of poisoning are reported to occur within thirty minutes of consumption, with nausea and vomiting accompanied by vertigo and chills.

[3] The agent which gives the fungus its distinctive odour is sotolon,[5] which also gives fenugreek seed and lovage their characteristic smells.

[6] It is present as well in molasses, aged sake and white wine, flor sherry, and roasted tobacco,[7] as well as in maple syrup.