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This species and M. ulsterata are very similar in appearance, but are quite distinctive compared to other Macaria. The forewing is cream-grey with three usually distinct transverse lines, and a bold brown patch in the middle outer third (distal to the postmedian (PM) line. The forewing is distinctly notched below the apex, accented by a dark fringe. Hindwing with discal spot and antemedian (AM) and PM lines, the margin coming to a distinct point, giving a nearly "tailed" appearance. M. ulsterata is larger with a paler white ground colour.

A description and illustration of the larva is given in Wagner et al. (2001). Adults come to light (Handfield 1999). The larvae feed only on maples (Acer) (Wagner et al. 2001). The distribution and larval host records reported by Prentice (1963), and repeated by Handfield (1999) are in error, and are in part referable to the similar S. ulsterata. Known in Alberta only from the Lloydminster area; it is likely that this species will only be found in association with Manitoba Maple here.

Larvae feed on maples (Wagner et al. 2001). Many hosts cited for this species by Prentice (1963) and Handfield (1999) are referable to S. ulsterata. Reports of locust (Robinia sp.) as a larval host (Forbes 1948) are also in error, as larvae are not able to feed on this species (Wagner et al. 2001).