Zizia aurea

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Zizia Aurea 1 Zizia Aurea (2) Zizia Aurea Zizia Aurea (4) Zizia Aurea Copy
Zizia Aurea 1 Zizia Aurea (2) Zizia Aurea Zizia Aurea (4) Zizia Aurea Copy

Zizia aurea

Common Name: Golden Alexanders

Golden Alexanders is a hardy, clump-forming perennial that reaches 1 to 3 feet in height, with flat-topped clusters of bright yellow flowers in late spring to early summer. It thrives in prairies, woodland edges, and moist meadows, where it supports numerous pollinators, including native bees and butterflies. This species is a host plant for the Black Swallowtail butterfly and is commonly used in rain gardens, pollinator plantings, and prairie restorations.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 30
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 20
Bloom month(s) May, June, July
Bloom Color or Type Yellow
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.