Invertebrates
Rosemary Beetle
Chrysolina americana
On a rosemary bush in an English garden in October, a rosemary beetle shines green and purple, a Mediterranean visitor that has settled into British gardens.
Overview
The rosemary beetle, Chrysolina americana, is a small, striped, iridescent leaf beetle native to southern Europe that has spread across southern England. Its metallic stripes and taste for herbs make it one of the most recognisable beetles in the herb garden.
A Mediterranean beetle in an English garden
As winters have warmed, the rosemary beetle has become established in English gardens, where it feeds on the same aromatic herbs that grow in its southern homeland.
Status
Not Evaluated, and expanding.
Rosemary Beetle: common questions
Why is it called the rosemary beetle?
It feeds on rosemary, and also on lavender, sage, and thyme.
Is the rosemary beetle from America?
No, despite its scientific name americana, it comes from southern Europe.
When is the rosemary beetle active?
It is active in autumn, winter, and spring, when many other insects are inactive.
Where is the rosemary beetle found?
It lives in gardens, herb beds, and scrubland of southern Europe, and has become established in southern England.