Local on rough grassland and waste ground, although the exact status and distribution of this species is unclear due to past confusion with
C. frischella, which is very similar and can only be separated through dissection of the genitalia. In Hampshire widespread and almost certainly under-recorded; this is certainly the case on Wight, where it was determined for the first time at Totland in 2021 and found to be common at the same site in 2022. Wingspan 11.5-14.5 mm. Larva feeds within seedheads of White Clover, living within a movable case.