Forewing wide and blunt, usually white but occasionally with more or less tan coloration in northeastern part of range. Hindwing medium to light brownish grey, darkest by apex, gradually turning white toward hind corner. Moth generally lighter in southern populations. Female with fully developed maxillary tentacles. Comparison with similar species Similar to many species in the yuccasella complex, especially the largely sympatric intermedia and cassandra , but intermedia females lack functional maxillary tentacles, and yuccasella has a lower dorsal keel on the ovipositor than either species.
Genitalic characters are helpful in obtaining a definitive identification.
A diagnostic key is provided. Females oviposit into young fruit. Eggs are laid inside the ovary, between the locule wall and the ovules. The larva feeds on developing seeds. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil.