Based on the collective descriptions of the five taxa now considered to be "G. marginata", the texture of the surface shows significant variation. Smith and Singer give the following descriptions of surface texture: from "viscid" ("G. autumnalis"), to "shining and viscid to lubricous when moist" ("G. oregonensis"), to "shining, lubricous to subviscid (particles of dirt adhere to surface) or merely moist, with a fatty appearance although not distinctly viscid", to "moist but not viscid" ("G. marginata"). The cap surface remains smooth and changes colors with humidity (hygrophanous), pale to dark ochraceous tawny over the disc and yellow-ochraceous on the margin (at least when young), but fading to dull tan or darker when dry. When moist, the cap is somewhat transparent so that the outlines of the gills may be seen as striations. The flesh is pale brownish ochraceous to nearly white, thin and pliant, with an odor and taste varying from very slightly to strongly like flour ().