[2] When damaged, it bleeds dark red latex.

[3] Lactarius indigo looks similar, but with a blue latex.

[2] Lactarius rubrilacteus has a reddish latex and does not appear blue.

[3] Fruiting from early fall to late winter, the species is found in the southern and eastern United States.

[citation needed] The species is edible and mild, but bitter if too old.