How to identify Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea)

How to identify Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea)

Golden alexanders, also known as Golden zizia

Golden alexanders is recognized by its unique flat-topped clusters of tiny, bright yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Each flower consists of only a few parts: five petals, five stamens, and one single style at the center. The compound leaves are both basal and cauline, giving the plant a bushy appearance. The basal leaves are typically larger, spanning up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide, with toothed margins and a rough texture. This hardy perennial reaches a modest height of 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) and is adaptable to a variety of lighting conditions, from full sunlight to light shade.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Golden alexanders

Flat-topped clusters of bright yellow flowers with 5 petals and 5 stamens.

Basal and cauline compound leaves up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide, with toothed margins.

Fruit transitions from green to light purple, oblong capsules 3-4 mm long post-flowering.

Lanceolate or ovate leaves up to 3.1 inches (8 cm) long, turning light purple in autumn.

Hardy perennial reaching 1-3 feet (30-90 cm), adaptable to various light conditions.

Detailed Traits of Golden alexanders

Leaf Features

The leaves of golden alexanders are lanceolate or ovate with finely serrated margins, measuring up to 3.1 inches (8 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Larger leaves may feature 1 or 2 sharp lobes. The lower leaves are twice or three times compound with long petioles, whereas the upper leaves are once compound with short petioles. In autumn, the leaves slowly turn a light purple, adding a distinct color change to the plant's foliage.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Golden alexanders flowers are small, less than 0.3 centimeters (0.12 inches) in length, featuring 5 sepals, 5 petals, and 5 stamens. These tiny flowers form into 8 centimeters (3.15 inches) wide, flat-topped clusters known as compound umbels. The central flower of each umbel lacks a stalk. Blooming from April to May, they are followed by oblong green fruit capsules, 3-4 millimeters (0.12-0.16 inches) long, which gradually turn light purple in autumn.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of golden alexanders is characterized by small, oblong capsules approximately 3 – 4 millimeters in length. Initially presenting a vibrant green coloration, these fruits undergo a gradual transition to a light purple hue as autumn approaches. These capsules, formed post-flower phase, are generally observed displaying their mature form from June to July. The texture and shape of the fruit, along with the distinctive color shift, are noteworthy features helpful for identification. The fruit's seasonality and color change are key characteristics for recognition.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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