Coast Fiddleneck
Amsinckia intermedia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Coast Fiddleneck (Amsinckia intermedia) 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
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Amsinckia intermedia is a low-growing annual wildflower with small orange or yellow blooms that appear in spring and early summer. This native forb thrives in full sun with minimal water. It naturally reseeds and fills in open areas with its compact, spreading growth habit.
In an HOA neighborhood
Coast 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.
- Annual growth pattern creates gaps and inconsistent coverage
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to conventional gardeners
- Small flowers and informal growth habit lack ornamental appeal
Wildlife value
Host plant for painted lady butterfly.
The flowers provide nectar for native bees and butterflies during the critical spring pollinator season. As an early bloomer, it offers important food sources when few other plants are flowering.
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 Coast Fiddleneck fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.