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Meadow Zizia

Zizia aptera

Last reviewed: June 2026

Meadow Zizia (Zizia aptera)
Photo: Chelsea Monks, Black Hills National Forest / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, CO, CT and 33 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles, wasps

Meadow zizia is a compact native perennial that forms neat clumps with divided, bright green foliage. It produces clusters of small yellow flowers in late spring and early summer, creating a tidy, well-behaved appearance in the garden.

In an HOA neighborhood

Meadow Zizia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • Goes dormant in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

Host plant for black swallowtail butterfly.

The yellow flowers attract a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, beetles, and wasps. It serves as a host plant for black swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.

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.

Does Meadow Zizia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.