The common meadow bug can reach a length of 6 to 8 millimeters in males, and 6 to 7 millimeters in females. The color pattern and markings of this plant bug varies greatly. Color may be green, brown or reddish. Usually, the males are light reddish-brown to dark red, while the females are green and brownish-colored. The body is oval and slightly flattened. The scutellum is heart-shaped in both sexes and often cream colored. The wings are clearly visible, as they are not completely covered by the hemelytra [the forewings of plant bugs]. Eyes, legs and antennae are usually reddish.
Both larvae and adults of the common meadow bug feed on different herbaceous plant juices, producing brown spots on leaves and causing them to wither.