Zizia aurea, Golden Alexander

Golden Alexander, Zizia aurea, is a common late spring sight across Minnesota. These can be confused with other yellow-flowering species of similar form, some weeds, others not. Another species, Zizia aptera, Heart-leaved Alexander, is quite similar but for differences in leaf appearance and its greater tolerance for drier soils. Golden Alexander is an important early season provider of food.

Blooms: yellow, May into June

Height: 2 to 3 feet