Fiddleneck
Phacelia tanacetifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Phacelia tanacetifolia is a native wildflower found in Arizona, California, and Nevada that blooms from March through June. This drought-tolerant annual attracts bees, butterflies, and moths with its purple flower clusters.
Fiddleneck (Phacelia tanacetifolia) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Fiddleneck as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Fiddleneck
Grow Fiddleneck in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- When does Phacelia tanacetifolia bloom?
- Phacelia tanacetifolia typically blooms from March through June, producing clusters of purple flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Phacelia tanacetifolia?
- This native wildflower attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and moths. It is particularly valued by beekeepers as an excellent nectar source.
- Where is Phacelia tanacetifolia native?
- Phacelia tanacetifolia is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, California, and Nevada, where it grows in desert and chaparral habitats.
- Is Fiddleneck toxic to dogs?
- Fiddleneck is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Fiddleneck toxic to cats?
- Fiddleneck is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Fiddleneck toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Fiddleneck as toxic to livestock.
- Is Fiddleneck HOA-friendly?
- Fiddleneck is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Fiddleneck? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz