It can be found in northern, central, and southeastern Europe, as well as in Scotland, Ireland, and the Iberian Peninsula.

The wingspan is 41–46 mm (1.6–1.8 in).The forewing has a dark spot and two, often indistinct, dark transverse lines that delimit a trapezoidal field that is sometimes slightly darker than the rest of the wing.

It may also have a hint of a white transverse stripe along the outer edge, otherwise it is completely evenly colored.

The larva is smooth, greyish-brown with two small warts on the back of the posterior body joint.

The larvae feed on various plants found in heath areas, such as Calluna vulgaris and Saxifraga species.