Wingspan 16 to 20 mm. A relatively uniform and weakly-marked species.

It generally occurs in damper habitats, such as fenland and broads.

Flies during June and July.

The larvae live in the seedheads of Common Valerian, feeding on the developing seeds and flowers.

This moth is distributed throughout Britain, though can be local in parts. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as Nationally Scarce B.

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