Wingspan about 22 mm. Quite distinctive, but variable, with its whitish or creamy ground colour suffused with darker markings.

This species prefers dryer grassy areas.

On the wing from July to September, it can be attracted by light.

Present throughout most of Britain in suitable habitat, it becomes less common further north. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

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