The range of Xylocopa violacea extends from Europe eastward across Asia as far as central China, restricted to latitudes above 30 degrees.

This follows a northwards expansion of its range in France, Germany, and the Channel Islands.

[3] Violet carpenter bees hibernate over winter and they emerge in the spring, usually around April or May.

In the late spring or early summer, they may be seen around searching for mates and suitable nesting sites.

The eggs are laid within a series of small cells, each of which is supplied with a pollen ball for the larvae to feed upon.