This common and widespread species is present in most of Europe and in the Nearctic realm.

The color pattern and markings are quite variable, ranging from purple to yellowish brown.

Usually the males are more strongly marked than females, that commonly vary from dark red to light reddish-brown.

They may feed on Trifolium, Chenopodium, Rumex, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Urticaceae and Asteraceae species.

They also feed on potatoes, cereals, alfalfa and other crops, so they are considered a very harmful pest.