Wingspan 35 to 40 mm. Although similar in shape to the Coxcomb Prominent (P. capucina), this species has a more variegated appearance.

Prefers woodland and chalk downland.

It flies from May to July.

The larvae live on Field Maple and sometimes Sycamore.

Its distribution covers the south and south-east of England, but is not especially common. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant).