Golden Alexanders, Golden zizia

Zizia aurea

Physical Characteristics

Zizia aurea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Quebec to Saskatchewan and south to Texas and Florida..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: The flowers, with the main stem removed, are a welcome addition to a tossed green salad. They are also a delicious cooked vegetable when used in a similar manner to broccoli[183].

Medicinal Uses

Febrifuge Hypnotic Vulnerary A tea made from the root is febrifuge[222, 257]. The root is also believed to be vulnerary and hypnotic[222].

Known Hazards

There is a report that the root might be toxic[222].