The basidiocarps (fruiting bodies) of Russula delica seem loath to leave the soil, and are often found half buried.

Russula delica is widespread in the northern temperate zones, including Britain, Europe, Asia.

Russula delica is similar in colour and shape, though has adnate blue-green tinged gills and no milk.

In North America Russula delica is rare, and is largely replaced by R. brevipes, which is very similar, and is not on the British list.

Russula delica is a mushroom that goes by the common name of milk-white brittlegill, and is a member of the Russula genus, all of which are collectively known as brittlegills.