Tarweed Fiddleneck
Amsinckia lycopsoides
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Pl. F044 — Amsinckia lycopsoides
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IOverview
Overview
Tarweed Fiddleneck (Amsinckia lycopsoides) is an annual forb/herb native to the western and northeastern United States, ranging from British Columbia to Texas and as far east as Connecticut and Wisconsin. Known for its edible leaves, shoots, and seeds, this plant thrives in various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—with a preference for dry to moist conditions. Its light requirements are moderate, with an energy rating of 8 out of 10. Tarweed Fiddleneck is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 0.6 meters tall. One distinctive feature is its distinctive seed pod that resembles a fiddle or violin, hence the common name "Fiddleneck."
Quick answers
What is Tarweed Fiddleneck?
Tarweed Fiddleneck (Amsinckia lycopsoides) is an annual forb/herb native to the western and northeastern United States, ranging from British Columbia to Texas and as far east as Connecticut and Wisconsin.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tarweed Fiddleneck thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 5.8 and 8.2, making it adaptable to various conditions. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates. The plant is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 0.6 meters tall. For best results, sow seeds directly into the garden soil when temperatures are mild. Keep the soil moist until germination, then allow it to dry slightly between waterings. This annual forb/herb can be propagated by seed and is suitable for gardens in temperate regions. Harvest leaves, shoots, and seeds for culinary use after the plant has matured.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
5.8–8.2
For first-time growers
How to grow Tarweed Fiddleneck for the first time
8steps
Start with Tarweed Fiddleneck as an easy-to-grow annual for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or direct garden space, soil, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before planting out.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare a well-draining soil with a pH between 5.8-8.2. Ensure containers are at least 30 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, or start indoors and transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist. Thin plants to about 30-45 cm apart once they are established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead leaves to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to thin seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The Tarweed Fiddleneck (Amsinckia lycopsoides) is edible with its leaves, shoots, and seeds being used. The young shoots are typically eaten raw or cooked. Seeds can be roasted or ground into a flour for use in various dishes. Leaves may also be incorporated into recipes after proper preparation.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 9 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 21 native· 9 introduced
Europe2 regions
introduced (2)FranceUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
introduced (1)South Korea
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Broader regions
native:North Dakota, California, Connecticut, Idaho, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Masachusettes, British Columbia, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio
introduced:Colorado, Illinois, New York, Tasmania, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · f04439a3-7afa-4c3b-a195-7dd78c46408d
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