How to Grow and Care for Zizia

Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea) flourishes in small colonies in damp meadows and woods. It's a plant that the larvae of the woodland swallowtail butterfly love to dine on. The genus name of "Zizia" is in honor of Johann Ziz, a German botanist.

Meadow zizia (Zizia aptera) has distinctive heart-shaped leaves which results in its other common name, the heart-leaved meadow parsnip. The scientific name honors the work of Johann Baptist Ziz, a German botanist who was born in the 18th century. The plant is perennial and native to North America.

Meadow alexanders is a perennial herb recognized for its trifoliate leaves, with each leaf comprising three leaflets. It flourishes in moist, well-drained soils of open woodlands and prairies. Clusters of small, yellow flowers bloom atop sturdy stems in spring, forming umbels that attract a variety of pollinators. This plant's distinctive foliage and flowering pattern make it a notable presence in its native habitat.