Local in woodland and orchards throughout southern England, north to Yorkshire. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widely distributed, but not particularly common. Wingspan 7-8 mm. Cannot be distinguished on external characteristics from P. spinicolella. Imago seldom encountered at light, and more likely to be recorded in the larval stage, when mines are relatively easy to find where they are present. Larva mines leaves of Wild Cherry and Dwarf Cherry.
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