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Description
Zizia Aptera, commonly known as heart-leaved golden Alexander, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the carrot family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central regions of the United States. It is known for its unique heart-shaped leaves and clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Zizia |
Appearance
Zizia Aptera can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide, and it prefers moist to wet soil conditions. Its heart-shaped leaves are bright green in color and are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The plant produces clusters of small, bright yellow flowers that are arranged in umbels. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are followed by small, oval-shaped fruits.
Care Guide
To care for Zizia Aptera, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, but it prefers partial shade in hot climates. Zizia Aptera is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zizia Aptera is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if the growing conditions are too humid. This can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Zizia Aptera is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central regions of the United States. It grows in moist to wet soils and can be found in meadows, marshes, and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zizia Aptera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Zizia Aptera can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Can Zizia Aptera be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Zizia Aptera can be grown from seed. The seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Zizia Aptera attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Zizia Aptera is a pollinator plant and attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
Q: Is Zizia Aptera edible?
A: Yes, Zizia Aptera is edible, and its leaves and young shoots can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable.
Related Plants
- Zizia aurea
- Zizia trifoliata
- Zizia aptera var. aptera
- Zizia aptera var. canadensis
References
- “Zizia aptera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c783>.
- “Zizia aptera.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/zizia-aptera/>.
- “Zizia aptera Heart-leaved golden alexanders.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 25 May 2021. <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/hrt_golden_alex.htm>.
