Wingspan 46 to 55 mm. Although rather variable in ground colour, this species can be confused with Great Oak Beauty. One of the separating features is that the latter species has a pale spot on a dark background on the tip of the forewing underside.

Favoured habitat is woodland.

The adults fly between May and July.

Larvae feed on Oak, Birch and other trees.

Occurring in the south of England and Wales. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).