Wingspan 21 to 23 mm. Despite its English (and Latin) name, this is one of the more distinctively-marked Pug moths, and is relatively easy to identify.

Frequents waste ground and similar areas where the larval foodplants are found.

It flies from June to August.

The caterpillars feed on the seeds of Orache and Goosefoot.

It is found throughout most of England, though scarcer further north, and is local in Ireland and Wales. 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).