First described in 1895 as Omphalina semivestipes by Charles Horton Peck,[3] the species was transferred to Mycena in 1947 by Alexander H. Smith.

[2] The cap is initially convex to somewhat conical before flattening out in age; it attains a diameter of 0.8–3.5 cm (0.3–1.4 in) wide.

The thin flesh has a firm texture similar to cartilage, a distinct strong nitrous odor, and a mild to somewhat bitter taste.

Its surface texture is smooth or lightly pruinose (as if dusted with a fine white powder), and it is dark brown at the base and whitish at the top.

[4] Mycena semivestipes is a saprobic species that obtains nutrients from the decomposing logs and stumps of hardwoods,[5] in which it fruits in dense clusters.