It is known from Central Europe: Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg (from where it is considered to be extirpated), Netherlands, Portugal, France, Germany, Austria, Lithuania, and Switzerland.

Its range extends from the Iberian Peninsula through Central Europe to Poland and from the southern Netherlands to northern Switzerland.

In the spring, eggs are deposited in stems of grass such as Bromus erectus, their main larval host.

The larvae hatch in May or June, feed on grass roots, and pupate after winter hibernation.

Adults emerge from the pupae in July or August, but remain in the soil until the end of their second winter hibernation.