Bristly Fiddleneck
Amsinckia tessellata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bristly Fiddleneck (Amsinckia tessellata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, MO and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bristly fiddleneck is a low-growing annual wildflower with small orange to yellow tubular flowers that bloom in spring. The plant has bristly, hairy leaves and stems that give it a somewhat rough texture. It thrives in dry, sunny locations and requires minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bristly Fiddleneck takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Has a distinctly wild, weedy appearance
- Bristly texture and informal growth habit
- Dies back completely after flowering, leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
This native annual provides important early season nectar for native bees and butterflies when few other flowers are available. The seeds also provide food for small birds and wildlife.
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 Bristly Fiddleneck fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.