Green Lacewing

Chrysoperla carnea

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Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+5 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensagricultural fieldsmeadowsforestslandscapes with flowering plantsorchards

Taxonomic Group

Lacewing

Order

Neuroptera

Family

Chrysopidae

Lifecycle

The Green Lacewing undergoes a complete metamorphosis with four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The adult female lays between 100 and 300 small, pale green eggs, each attached to a plant surface by a unique, slender silken stalk, which protects them from predators. After 3 to 6 days, the eggs hatch into alligator-like larvae. This larval stage is the primary predatory phase, lasting for two to three weeks, during which it passes through three instars, growing from less than 1mm to about 8mm. The larva, often called an 'aphid lion,' is a voracious predator, consuming large numbers of soft-bodied pests. Once mature, the larva spins a round, silken cocoon in a sheltered spot, where it pupates for 10 to 14 days. The adult emerges from the cocoon to complete the life cycle, which can take 4 to 6 weeks in summer conditions. There are typically two to several generations per year, depending on the climate.

Overwintering Strategy

Adults typically overwinter in sheltered locations such as leaf litter, under bark, or at the edges of fields. In colder climates, some species may also overwinter as pupae within their silken cocoons.

Native Range

North America

Attracted By

nectarpollenhoneydewaphidsthripsmealybugsleafhopperscaterpillarsscale insectswhitefliesspider mitesflowering plantsdillangelicacoriandercosmosQueen Anne's lace

Repelled By

broad-spectrum insecticidespersistent insecticidesmiticidesantsdust

Companion Planting

Planting a diversity of flowering plants, often referred to as insectary plants, is the most effective companion planting strategy to support Green Lacewings. Adults rely on nectar and pollen for food and to fuel egg production. Including plants from the carrot family (Apiaceae) like dill, fennel, and cilantro, and the aster family (Asteraceae) like cosmos and yarrow, will provide a continuous food source. Tolerating a small population of aphids on a sacrificial plant, such as nasturtiums, can also help to attract and retain lacewings in the garden, ensuring a resident population is ready to control pest outbreaks.