Golden Alexander
Zizia aurea
This eager, spring beauty is a versatile and adaptable plant. Boasting of small, golden-yellow flowers that are displayed on an array of gently-curved umbels it maybe one of the first splashes of color in the spring. Zizia is an important early source of pollen and nectar for newly emerging bees and other insects. The stalks showcase pointy, toothed leaves that sport a deep green coloration. Being able to survive in various conditions with a high tolerance for drought make this perennial a great choice for low maintenance areas of a garden.
Pollinating insects that visit Zizia include Mining bees, Azure butterflies, Negro bugs and Soldier beetles. It also serves as a larval host plant for the Black Swallowtail butterfly.
Height
1-3 feet (30-90cm)
Blooming Period
Spring-Early Summer
Light
Full to Partial Sun
Water
Moist to Dry
Soil
Acidic to Neutral
Zone
3-8
Native Ontario Habitat
Moist meadows, woodlands and prairies