Extremely variable geographically, with at least 4 subspecies.
Wings range from dark orange-brown to pale cream.
Underside of forewing usually has a small eyespot near its tip. Underside of hindwing is gray-green with a wavy white median line. One to two broods from March-October, depending on locality. Grassy, open areas in a wide variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, grasslands, and tundra. Isolated populations in Newfoundland and New Brunswick.