Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Leaves alternate, divided into 3 leaflets, sometimes divided again into 3 leaflets; margins densely toothed with tips of teeth rounded.

Height

To 2 feet

Blooms

April-June

Description

A member of the carrot family, it often is found in large colonies. Flowers are open, multi-branched clusters, bright yellow, in a more or less flat-topped display.

Comments

Common throughout Missouri in woodlands, savannas, prairies and glades, it grows in moist to dry conditions. While rarely used in wildflower seeding mixes, it should be used more often, especially for restoration projects. It’s easy to establish from seed and flowers the second or third year from seeding. Golden Alexanders is a preferred food source for some butterfly larva.