Wingspan 15-19 mm. It is often a brightly-coloured species.

It occupies a wide range of habitats, including suburban areas, parks, gardens, hedgerows, roadside verges, heathland, moorland and woodland.

This species generally has two broods, flying in April and May and again in August, though it can be found on the wing as early as January in mild winters. It is a regular visitor to the light-trap.

The larvae feed on the flowers of a range of plants and bushes, including Gorse and Holly.

Common throughout Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)