Its large size (13 mm) and cruciform white markings make it easy to identify, although the abdomen colour can vary from yellow through red-brown to almost black. The males are usually slimmer than the females.

It is widespread in gardens, woodland and meadows.

It is particularly noticeable in late summer to autumn when numbers peak and the large orb webs can be highlighted by dew.

This spider is mature from summer to autumn and is usually at its largest in late autumn when it is at its oldest and often full of eggs. After laying their eggs the females die and only the eggs and the spiders that hatched in the spring of the year will overwinter.

Extremely common and widespread in Britain.

Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

11,606 British records for this species to 2015