Common fiddlenecks (Amsinckia menziesii), also known as intermediate fiddlenecks, are distinctive members of the forget-me-not family (Boraginaceae). They are named for the clustered whorl of yellow-orange flowers at the end of their stems, which resembles the neck of a violin or fiddle. These wildflowers are common throughout the western United States.
Though these flowers are attractive, watch out! They are covered in little hairs that can irritate your skin if you touch them, so it’s best to admire these beauties from a distance. Fiddlenecks also contain certain toxic alkaloid compounds which can cause poisoning in livestock (including horses) if ingested.
Blooming period: March to May
Habitat: Open, sunny grasslands and edges of oak woodlands.
Where to find: Spot a fiddleneck at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve, Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve or Windy Hill Open Space Preserve.
