It has been considered by some authors to be a form of Xysticus cristatus, but there is now agreement that it is a separate species.  

Identification of this species  "Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia." Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press.

Grassland and scrub, especially heath like areas where gorse or heather are present.

Adults of both sexes are found mainly in late spring and early summer with a peak in May and June, females persisting later.

The species has a widespread but rather scattered Distribution: in much of southern Britain, with a few scattered records north. It is frequent in suitable habitat in southern England, but very local elsewhere.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.