The specific epithet botrytis is derived from the Greek word (botrus) meaning bunch of grapes. The species is commonly known as the cauliflower coral, the pink-tipped coral mushroom, or the rosso coral. In the Cofre de Perote region of Veracruz, Mexico, R. botrytis is known by the local names escobea, meaning little broom, or pechuga, meaning breast meat of chicken.