Golden Alexanders
Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea) is a short-lived perennial wildflower native to eastern North America. It is a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae) and is closely related to Queen Anne's lace.
Golden alexanders grows to a height of 2-3 feet and has branching, erect stems. The leaves are divided into threes twice, with each leaf segment being serrated. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in a flat-topped umbel.
Golden alexanders blooms in late spring to early summer, from May to June. It is a valuable nectar source for butterflies, moths, and other pollinators. The flowers are also edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Golden alexanders is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of soil conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is a good choice for naturalizing in meadows, prairies, or other open areas.
Here are some additional details about golden alexanders:
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Height: 2-3 feet
Bloom Time: May-June
Soil Type: Moist, well-drained
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Care and Maintenance
Golden alexanders is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. It is drought-tolerant once established, but it will benefit from regular watering during the first year. Golden alexanders does not need to be fertilized, but it can be divided every few years to maintain its vigor.
Propagation
Golden alexanders can be propagated by seed, division, or root cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring. Division can be done in the spring or fall. Root cuttings can be taken in the spring or fall.
Uses
Golden alexanders is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It is a popular choice for naturalizing in meadows, prairies, or other open areas. It can also be used as an ornamental plant in gardens or as a cut flower. The flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Toxicity
Golden alexanders is not considered to be toxic to humans or animals.
Golden Alexanders is native to a wide range of states in eastern North America, stretching from Canada to Florida and west to Kansas. Here's a breakdown by region:
Eastern United States: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida.
Central United States: Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee.
West-Central United States: North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas.
