[1] The cap is initially convex to somewhat conical before flattening out in age; it attains a diameter of 4.5–15 cm (1.8–5.9 in) wide.

The flesh is greyish white in the cap, lacks any distinct odor, and has a bitter or acrid taste.

Tricholoma virgatum is somewhat similar in appearance, but can be distinguished by its pointed umbo, lack of greyish tints on the gill edges, and its preferred habitat of coniferous and mixed woods.

[2] The European species Tricholoma hordum has smaller fruit bodies with more distantly spaced gills, which have a pinkish coloration.

[1] Fruit bodies of Tricholoma pullum grow on the ground scattered or in groups under hardwood trees, particularly beech and oak.