Fiddleneck
Phacelia tanacetifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Fiddleneck (Phacelia tanacetifolia) 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
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, NV
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Phacelia tanacetifolia is a native annual wildflower with lacy, fernlike foliage and curved lavender-blue flower spikes that resemble a fiddleneck. It grows quickly to 1-3 feet tall, blooming profusely from spring into early summer. This plant is drought-tolerant once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fiddleneck is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Can look untidy after blooming
- May self-seed aggressively in some gardens
- Annual nature means seasonal appearance changes
Wildlife value
Fiddleneck is exceptionally valuable to native bees and honeybees, often called 'bee's friend' for the abundant nectar and pollen it provides. It also attracts butterflies and moths.
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 Fiddleneck fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.