Family: Hyacinthaceae
Common Name: Camass

In their native habitat of North America, these hardy bulbs are generally found in woods, while in the garden they are pretty as border plants. They make good cut flowers in early summer. Their leaves are long and the showy flower spikes range from purple to blue to white.

Species

C. cusickii is easy to grow and produces large bulbs. Masses of 2 cm (1 in) long, star-shaped lavender flowers appear on each erect stem. They grow to 60-90 cm (24-36 in).

C. leichllinii grows to the same height, and has cream-white flowers, or blue to violet flowers in its subspecies.

C. quamash also produces large bulbs which were used for food by the indigenous North American peoples in times past. The flower spikes range from dark blue to nearly white and are carried on 60 cm (24 in) stems.

Cultivation

Plant these bulbs 10 cm (4 in) deep and 7-10 cm (3-4 in) apart in a moist, loamy soil in a sunny or semi-shaded position in early autumn. Water well after planting but don't water again until leaves appear unless conditions are exceptionally dry. The bulbs can be lifted and divided every three years. If they produce seed, sow in a warm position in spring.

Climate

Zone 5, or zone 3 for C. leichtlinii.