Length 7 to 7.5 mm. This genus comprises four species in the UK; all are rather hairy bugs with largely membranous forewings, which are usually reddish in colour. R. subrufus can be distinguished by the alternate dark and light bands on the connexivum, and the whitish tip to the scutellum which ends in two points (bifid).

The other Rhopalus species are similar, but rarely or not recorded in VC55. 

This species is relatively easy to identify from a photograph. 

Often found on low vegetation in scrubby areas and woodland clearings. It is associated with many plants, particularly St John's-wort (Hypericum).

Adult: all year.

Overwinters as an adult, the new generation appearing in August.

Widely distributed in southern Britain.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.