Golden Alexanders

Botanical Name: Zizia aurea

Height: about 50 cm

Season of bloom: Spring.

Growing Conditions: Sun or part sun. Ordinary garden soil; tolerates dry soils but prefers moist.

Wildlife benefits: Host plant for caterpillars of Black Swallowtail butterflies.

From Ottawa Valley or eastern Ontario sources: No

Seeds: Germination Code: C(90) – cool, moist stratify for 90 days. Plants may self-sow, especially in moist sites.

Remarks:

Similar species: This is NOT the invasive weed called Wild Parsnip, which also has yellow umbel flowers. Golden Alexanders is a genuinely native plant which is a desirable species in meadows and butterfly gardens.

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