Plagiodera versicolora

Plagiodera versicolora

Alternative names
Imported Willow Leaf Beetle
Description

2.5-4.5mm. A very rounded leaf-beetle. Upperside is metallic green or blue, though occasionally purple. The underside, femora and tibiae are black, as are the tips of the antennae. The elytral punctures are generally in a confused pattern but with some hint of rows. There are usually small dimples in the elytra near the tips.

Identification difficulty
ID checklist (your specimen should have all of these features)
  • 2.5-4.5mm
  • Upperside all metallic (green, blue or purple)
  • Underside and legs largely black
  • Confused punctures on the elytra
  • Antennal segments 1-6 mainly yellow
  • Usually with shallow dimples in the elytra near the tips
Habitat

Mostly in places where Willows grow.

When to see it

Three generations from spring to late August.

Life History

The hibernating adults begin to emerge in the spring when foliage appears. These adults feed on the new leaves; cutting holes in them, before laying the eggs that become the second generation. It is the third generation that usually hibernate, although a few may breed to start a late fourth generation.

UK Status

More common in the southern half of England than the rest of Britain.

VC55 Status

Fairly frequnt in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records