Nationally scarce (Nb). Local, on chalky ground and sand-dunes, mainly on the coast, throughout much of England, Wales and southern Scotland, and in parts of Ireland. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight known principally from West Wight; records from the mainland should be treated with caution. Wingspan 14-17mm. Distinguished from
P. nigrata by larger size and straighter white cross-lines on the forewing. Larva feeds on Wild Thyme, living within a spinning.