Nationally scarce (Na) on waste ground and in dry open areas in south-eastern England, north to Yorkshire. In Hampshire apparently restricted to a few locations near Fareham. Not recorded from the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 11-14 mm. Most likely to be confused with
M. bradleyi and
M. divisella, but forewing a more uniform brownish grey colour. Larva mines stems of Great Willowherb, forming galls.