Wingspan 23 to 26 mm. A paler green than most other 'emeralds', the colour fades very quickly after the moth's emergence from the pupa.

Occurring in woodland areas.

Flies in May and June.

Feeding on a range of trees and bushes, including Birch, Hawthorn and Oak, the larva pupates before overwintering.

It is fairly common throughout England, Wales and Ireland. 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 and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).