Summary
The flat-topped yellow umbels of common golden–Alexanders (Zizia aurea), consisting of up to twenty individual tiny flowers, and similar in shape to Queen-Ann’s-lace, are the primary highlight of this carefree species. This member of the carrot family (Apiaceae) hosts the larvae of the black swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes). It is a rugged plant that tolerates rocky and clay soils and colonizes areas by seed. Plants have a taproot system and simple heart-shaped basal leaves. Compound, deeply toothed leaflets are borne on stems growing 3’ tall. This plant is found in moist woodlands, meadows, and thickets and is best suited to an informal setting in full sun to light shade in average, well-drained soil. Plant at the edge of a meadow with butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), flowering spurge (Euphorbia corollata), New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), early goldenrod (Solidago juncea), and clustered mountain mint (Pycnanthemum muticum). Zones 3-8.
More Details
- Plant Type
perennial - Sun/Shade Conditions
partial-shade-to-full-sun - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
average-to-moist - Flowering Period
mid-to-late-spring - Soil PH
adaptable - Flower Color
yellow - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
green - Fruit/Seed Color
tan
Additional Information
Illinois Wildflowers, Missouri Botanical Garden, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center