Camassia quamash — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Camassia quamash

Camassia Quamash

Updated · 707 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Camassia quamash, commonly known as common camas or simply quamash, is a perennial plant indigenous to North America. As a member of the lily family, it features tall spikes of blue-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Growing up to 60 cm in height, the plant emerges from bulbs and showcases long, narrow leaves with a bluish-green hue, making it a charming addition to any garden or landscape. Historically, Camassia quamash was a vital food source for indigenous peoples in North America, who harvested the bulbs for their starchy content. Traditionally, the bulbs were either roasted or boiled before consumption. Beyond its historical importance as a food source, Camassia quamash has gained popularity among gardeners for its striking appearance and ease of cultivation. While it thrives in moist soil conditions, it also exhibits some drought tolerance once established. In summary, Camassia quamash is an aesthetically pleasing and culturally significant plant that enhances both beauty and historical value wherever it is grown.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Camassia
Family
Asparagaceae
Hardiness Zone
3-7
Mature Height
30 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Blue, Purple
Flower Size
6.35 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Mid summer
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Camash en Camosh en Common camas en Common camash en Blue camass en Quamash en Small camas en Blue camas en Common quamash en Indian hyacinth en Quamosh en Camas en Star camas
PLATES
Camassia quamash leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Camassia quamash leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Camassia quamash flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Camassia quamash flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Camassia quamash fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Camassia quamash habit
PLATE 06 · habit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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