Golden Alexander (Zizia aurea) ZIZ-ee-ah OR-ee-ah

This lovely native of the eastern U.S. offers delicate, lemon-yellow broccoli-like flowers in late spring to early summer. Flowers last for weeks. Plants grow to about 2 feet tall and half as wide.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

These members of the carrot family, unlike the rest of the group, are missing a central flower cluster. Instead, each plant has many clusters. They prefer moist soil, and are excellent choices for native wetlands, woodland or wild gardens. They provide food for black swallowtail butterfly larvae.

Care: 

Provide average or moist soil in full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate wet soil.

Propagation: 

Sow seed in a cold frame when fresh.

Problems: 

Infrequent.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Adaptable Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Native, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Spring Flower Color Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Roadside, Waterside Style Meadow Garden, Rock Garden, Water Garden, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest