Golden Alexanders are very versatile for your prairie with flowers perfect for short-tongued insects. Thrives in various conditions, is salt tolerant, and serves as a vital food source for Black Swallowtail caterpillars. While tolerant of shade, Golden Alexanders truly do best in the sun. It’s commonly confused with the invasive Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa), but Zizia aurea is a totally different plant. It’s beneficial for the ecosystem and all pollinators.