Flaigg, Norman G.
Zizia aurea (L.) W.D.J. Koch
Golden zizia, Golden Alexanders
Apiaceae (Carrot Family)
Golden alexanders is a short-lived
perennial with branching, erect, reddish stems. The lower leaves are divided into threes twice while the upper leaves are divided once. The yellow flowers less than 1/8 inch long. Each tiny flower has 5
sepals, 5 petals, and 5 stamens. Separate clusters of tiny, yellow flowers gather into a large, flat-topped flower
head, the middle flower of each
umbel being stalkless. Dry seedheads turn purple, adding summer interest. The plant is 1-3 ft. tall.
Other yellow-flowering members of the carrot family include: Heart-leaved Meadow Parsnip (
Z. aptera), with
simple heart-shaped basal leaves; and Yellow Pimpernel (
Taenidia integerrima), with
compound leaves and untoothed leaflets. A common southern Meadow Parsnip of a different
genus, Thaspium trifoliatum, sometimes called Golden Alexanders as well, has only 3
lanceolate, untoothed leaflets.
Image Gallery:
15 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 1-3 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Time: Apr , May , Jun , Jul , Aug
Distribution
USA: AL , AR , CT , DE , FL , GA , IL , IN , IA , KS , KY , LA , ME , MD , MA , MI , MN , MS , MO , MT , NE , NH , NJ , NY , NC , ND , OH , OK , PA , RI , SC , SD , TN , TX , VT , VA , WV , WI , DC
Canada: MB ,
NB ,
NS ,
ON ,
QC ,
SK Native Distribution: Que. to Sask. & Flathead Co., MT, s. to New England, FL & TX
Native Habitat: Moist prairies; thickets; open woods
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N) Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Sun , Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist
Soil Description: Moist, sandy or sandy-clay soils.
Benefit
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Attracts: Butterflies
Larval Host: Black Swallowtail
Deer Resistant: Moderate
Butterflies and Moths of North America (BAMONA)
Zizia aurea is a larval host and/or nectar source for:
Last Update: 2012-10-03
