Yellow burr weed

The genus Amsinckia includes several species of flowering plants, commonly known as fiddlenecks. These annual herbs are part of the Boraginaceae family and are primarily found in North and South America. The appearance and specific characteristics can vary among different Amsinckia species. Here's a general overview:

Characteristics:

Leaves:
- The leaves are typically lanceolate or linear in shape.
- They may have a rough texture or be covered with stiff hairs.
- The arrangement of leaves can be alternate or basal, depending on the species.
Flowers:
- The flowers are tubular and arranged in coiled or helical clusters, resembling the shape of a fiddlehead fern.
- Flower colors can range from yellow to orange and red, depending on the species.
- The inflorescence often unfurls as the plant matures, creating a distinctive coiled appearance.
Habitat:
- Amsinckia species are often found in open and disturbed areas, such as fields, roadsides, and wastelands.
- They can thrive in a variety of soil types.
Life Cycle:
- Fiddlenecks are annual plants, completing their life cycle within a single growing season.
- They reproduce by producing seeds, which are often dispersed by wind.

Common Species:

Amsinckia intermedia - Common Fiddleneck:
- Found in various habitats, including grasslands and disturbed areas.
- Yellow flowers and coiled inflorescence are characteristic.
Amsinckia menziesii - Menzies' Fiddleneck:
- Common in western North America.
- Yellow-orange flowers in a helical arrangement.
Amsinckia tessellata - Bristly Fiddleneck:
- Found in diverse habitats, from deserts to grasslands.
- Yellow to orange flowers.

Ecological Role:

Amsinckia species are often early colonizers of disturbed areas, contributing to ecological succession.
They provide nectar and pollen for pollinators, such as bees.

Note: While Amsinckia species can be common and play a role in ecosystems, some may be considered weeds in agricultural settings.