It is found in wet places under birch and aspen woodlands across Europe and North America.

It was described in 1888 by William Bywater Grove, based on a specimen from Sutton Park in the English Midlands.

Measuring 4–10 cm (1.5 4 in) in diameter, it is slightly sticky when moist,[4] and leaves and other debris often stick to it.

[5] The edible but acrid Russula ochroleuca resembles this species, but has a duller yellow cap.

[1] Russula claroflava appears in summer and autumn, usually with birch (Betula), or aspen (Populus), on heaths and moors, preferring damp places near ponds or lakes, often occurring in sphagnum.