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Rosemary beetle

The rosemary beetle belongs to the leaf beetles. These 8 mm large striking beetles are exotic; Southern Europe is their natural habitat.

recognize rosemary beetle
Rosemary beetle, photo: Hectonichus - CC BY SA 3.0

Rosemary beetle (Chrysolina americana) belongs to the leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae). These 8 mm large striking beetles are exotic; Southern Europe is their natural habitat.
The larva is dark gray and eats the leaves of rosemary, lavender, thyme and sage, among others, and can cause extensive crop damage.
When in danger, the rosemary beetle retracts antennae and legs.
There are no known natural enemies commercially available to control rosemary beetles.

Where to find

  • Lemon balm
  • Rosemary
  • Lavender
  • Thyme
  • Sage

Control

Difficult to control; catch and remove beetles by hand.

Prevention

Strongly scented plants (garlic, marigolds) are said to keep the rosemary goldenrod at bay. Netting will stop adults beetles from moving between plants. Check plants weekly for the beetles and remove them before their numbers get out of hand.

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