Wingspan 28 to 36 mm. There are a number of colour forms in different parts of the country, including a blackish form, ab. scopariae in northern England.

Inhabiting heathland and moorland.

The flight time of the adults is September, when they can be attracted to light.

The larval foodplant is heather.

Widespread, but not common, in most of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain 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).