Wingspan 11 to15 mm. The adults are similar to several other species and are best identified by reference to the genitalia.

This moth inhabits a variety of open habitats.

It is on the wing from June to September and is mainly nocturnal.

The larval foodplants are mainly orache and goosefoot. In its later stages, the larva creates a case made from silk and specks of plant material or droppings.

Occurring locally in England and Wales and parts of southern Ireland. 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).