Named after Ben Woo, the PNW physician who extensively studies the Russulas of the region, this is a large Russula that can easily reach 10cm or more. The cap color is exceedingly variable, usually purplish or brownish with admixtures or spots of different coloration such as green or yellowish. It is an odorless and edible species that is mild on tasting. It it fairly common in the region, growing typically under hemlock or mixed conifers. The margin is slighty grooved and the gills are cream-colored and close. Short gills are few in number. Stalks are white and may have pinkish tinges. The spore print is cream.