Golden Alexander (Zizia aurea) is an important early source of pollen and nectar for newly emerging bees and other insects. It is an early spring bloomer and its yellow colours can be stunning, especially when grown in clusters; they bloom for about a month. The stalks showcase pointy, toothed leaves that sport a deep green coloration. This perennial is able to survive in various conditions with a high tolerance for drought, making it a great choice for low-maintenance areas of a garden.

Zizia  plant with its small yellow flowers
Golden Alexander Plant
Credit: peganum from Small Dole, England, via Wikimedia Commons

Caring for Golden Alexanders

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade.

Quick Growing Guide

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Botanical Name: Zizia aurea

En français: Zizia doré

Colour:

Blooms:

Sun / Shade:

Water: Moist to Dry

Pollinators:

Hardiness Zones:

Growing from Seed

It is a very easy plant to grow from seed. Good results have been achieved by simply sprinkling seeds in the fall, then pressing them lightly into the soil.

Companion Plants

Companion plant suggestions include Asclepias tuberosa, Bouteloua curtipendula, Carex bicknellii, Monarda fistulosa, Rudbeckia hirta, Schizachyrium scoparium, Sporobolus heterolepis or Sorghastrum nutans.

They are best grown in clusters in open woodland or prairie areas, wild or native plant gardens. They are good for a border or in a midheight section fo a flower bed. Its natural habitat are meadows, borders, ditches.

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