Wingspan 16 to 23 mm.This species bears a close resemblance to R. buoliana, but has generally slightly stronger markings on the forewing and a shallower 'V' marking towards the rear. In difficult cases it may be necessary to refer to genitalia dissection to confirm identity.

Favouring pine woodland.

The moths fly during July and August and are generally nocturnal, though it can be disturbed during the day.

The larvae feed on the shoots of Scots Pine, in a manner similar to that of R. buoliana.

It is distributed over much of England, but is rather rare elsewhere. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).