Wingspan 18 to 22 mm. This species is best identified by dissection of the genitalia.

Areas where the larval foodplants are present.

The moths fly from May to August, possibly in two generations.

The larvae feed on Yarrow and Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea), chiefly in the flower-heads.

Phycitodes maritima occurs locally throughout much of England, though it is commoner in the south and east. He species occurs inland as well as coastally, despite the scientific name. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as local.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).