Wingspan 33 to 36 mm. Like other lutestrings, it can be variable, and there is a relatively plain, greyish form. The moths occurring in Britain are a separate subspecies, hartwiegi.

Good photographs and/or the specimen required.

A species of mature oak woodland.

The single generation flies in August and September.

The caterpillars, which feed on oak, are dull greenish yellow with a black head.

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

Generally rare or in rapid decline in VC55.