Rough Fiddleneck
Amsinckia retrorsa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rough Fiddleneck (Amsinckia retrorsa) 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
Rigid fiddleneck is a native annual wildflower that produces small orange to yellow tubular flowers along curved stems. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in poor soils and creates colorful spring displays before dying back in summer heat.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rough 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
- Annual habit creates gaps after plants die
- Rough, hairy foliage looks unkempt
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract native bees and provide nectar for butterflies during spring blooming season. Seeds also support 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 Rough Fiddleneck fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.