[2] Based upon an annual parallax shift of 21.03 mas as seen from Earth,[1] it is located around 155 light years from the Sun.

[7] The visual magnitude +3.68 primary, component A, is either an ordinary A-type main-sequence star or somewhat evolved subgiant with a stellar classification of A2 V[4] or A2 IV,[5] respectively.

It is spinning rapidly with a projected rotational velocity of 216.6 km/s, which causes it to have an oblate shape, as well as hotter temperatures in the poles due to gravity darkening.

It is a main-sequence star with a class of K3 V.[3] There is a magnitude +10.98 visual companion, designated component C, located 202 arcseconds away.

[15] Consequently, the Chinese name for β Serpentis itself is 天市右垣五 (Tiān Shì Yòu Yuán wu, English: the Fifth Star of Right Wall of Heavenly Market Enclosure), represent Zhou (周) (possibly Chow, the dynasty in China),[16][17][18] together with η Capricorni and 21 Capricorni in Twelve States (asterism).