Common in a wide range of habitats, including roadside verges, damp meadows, moorland and sea cliffs throughout the British Isles; widely distributed in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, but reported much less often than formerly. Wingspan 30-36 mm. The main confusion species is Lychnis H. bicruris, which see for difference. Larva feeds on seeds of White Campion, Red Campion, Sea Campion and Ragged Robin.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records Very occasional Irregular Uncommon Off-peak, but not unusual Off-peak, but not unusual Main flight time