Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Beetles, bugs, ants, and other insects without obvious wings - 1/4 inch - 1/2 inch long > Spotted asparagus beetle

Spotted asparagus beetle

Crioceris duodecimpunctata

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota extension

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Description: 1/4 inch long.
Reddish-orange with 12 black spots on the wing covers.

Where/When: Feeds on asparagus spears and ferns. They are present from late May until late July.

Significance: Small numbers are usually not injurious. Larger numbers can brown asparagus spears, distort growth, and make asparagus unpalatable due to eggs laid on spears.

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