Chrysolina americana is a colourful metallic^[1] leaf beetle native to Southern Europe, despite the species name americana. Commonly known as the Rosemary Beetle because it feeds on rosemary and lavender.^[2]

Introduction to the United Kingdom

This species was first discovered living outdoors in the United Kingdom in 1994. By 2002 it had become widespread in the London area, and spreading rapidly throughout. Although it is susceptible to some pesticides, it is usually recommended that home growers pick off beetles by hand, or shake them off onto a sheet of paper to remove them, if the plant affected by them is intended for culinary purposes.

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