Golden Zizia
Zizia aurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Golden Zizia is a native wildflower found across eastern and central North America that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers from May through July. This adaptable perennial attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles to gardens and natural areas.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 33 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Golden zizia is a compact native wildflower that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers from May through July. This well-behaved perennial forms neat clumps and works well in both formal and informal garden settings.
Growing Golden Zizia
Grow Golden Zizia in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden Zizia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The umbrella-shaped flower clusters attract numerous pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. It serves as a host plant for black swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.
Common questions
- When does Golden Zizia bloom?
- Golden Zizia blooms from May through July, producing umbels of small bright yellow flowers that are attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Golden Zizia?
- Golden Zizia attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its nectar-rich flowers. It is particularly valuable for native bee species and beneficial insects.
- Where is Golden Zizia native?
- Golden Zizia is native to much of eastern and central North America, ranging from Maine to Florida and west to North Dakota, Kansas, and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Golden Zizia prefer?
- Golden Zizia is adaptable to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a range of moisture levels, though it performs best with consistent moisture.
- Is Golden Zizia HOA-friendly?
- Golden Zizia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Golden Zizia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz