Wingspan 25-30 mm. This orange and purplish species gets its name from the broad, dark border that runs around the bottom of the wings.

Inhabits moist woodland, fens and other marshy places.

The single generation flies from July to September and is attracted to light.

The species overwinters in the egg stage, the larvae hatching in May and feeding on Willow.

Reasonably commonly distributed in England and Wales but scarcer in Scotland and Ireland although may be increasing in these areas. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)