Rose Chafer (Cetonia aurata)
Rose Chafer (Cetonia aurata)
Rose Chafer – Biology & Life Cycle
Get to know Cetonia aurata: appearance, life cycle, diet, and how to spot and support this metallic green beetle in your garden.
Key Facts
- Size: 12–20 mm
- Coloration: Metallic green shell with bronze reflections
- Active: May–August, overwintering as larvae in soil
- Diet: Adults feed on pollen, nectar, and overripe fruit; larvae are saprophagous
- Distribution: Europe, North Africa, West Asia in flower-rich gardens and woodland edges
- Scientific name: Cetonia aurata
- Common name (German): Rosenkäfer (rose chafer)
- Larval development: 2–3 years in humus/compost
- Overwintering: Larval stage
- Flight temperature: ≥ 15 °C
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Appearance
- Key Features
- Diet & Life Cycle
- Seasonal Activity
- Distribution
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction
The rose chafer, Cetonia aurata, is among the most striking beetles found in our gardens. Its metallic green shell with bronze reflections makes it easy to spot when it lands on flowers in May. This article explains its appearance, life cycle, and behavior – and how you can encourage it in your garden.
Appearance
The body is highly convex, covered by a shiny shell that shimmers between emerald and golden green. The elytra end in a fine central tip, while the head and pronotum are smooth but show a fine puncture pattern upon closer inspection. Its antennae end in distinctive lamellate plates, which can fan out when the beetle is excited.
Key Features
- Elytra: no deep grooves, evenly fine punctation
- Pronotum: rounded with a slight notch toward the head
- Scutellum: small, glossy triangle between the elytra
- Antennae: seven segments, last three expanded into lamellae
- Legs/tarsi: dark, five-segmented, strong for digging
Diet & Life Cycle
Adults are daytime visitors of flowers such as roses, peonies, elder, and fruit trees, feeding on pollen and nectar, and sometimes nibbling on overripe fruit.
The larvae are saprophagous, living in humus, compost, and decaying wood. Over 2–3 years, they grow underground while breaking down organic matter. In spring, they construct deep soil chambers, pupate, and emerge as adults from May onward.
Seasonal Activity
Cetonia aurata becomes active once air temperatures rise above 15 °C. From May to August, beetles can be seen basking on flowers during sunny periods. At dusk or in cooler conditions, they retreat to the ground. Larvae overwinter in soil, continuing their development the following spring.
Distribution
The rose chafer is widespread across Europe, North Africa, and West Asia. It prefers flower-rich gardens, woodland edges, and sunny shrublands. Larvae are commonly found in compost heaps and old decaying wood, where they contribute to humus formation.
FAQ
1. How can I easily identify the rose chafer?
By its metallic green shell with bronze reflections and lamellate antennae tips.
2. When is it most commonly seen?
From May to August, on warm, sunny days.
3. Are the larvae harmful in compost?
No, they break down organic matter and improve soil quality.
4. How long does larval development take?
Around 2–3 years, depending on temperature and food availability.
5. How can I protect it in my garden?
By keeping compost heaps and dead wood and providing nectar-rich plants.
Conclusion
The rose chafer (Cetonia aurata) is not only a dazzling jewel of the garden but also an important decomposer. With simple steps such as compost care and planting nectar-rich flowers, you can support its population and boost biodiversity in your garden. Enjoy discovering this spectacular beetle!
