Camassia
( kam - MASS - ee - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationCommonly called Camass, this flowering perennial grows from bulbs and needs full sun or light shade and regular waterings during growth and bloom periods. They are at home in meadow landscapes, but can also do a great job in adding a swath of blue to gardens. Flowers appear in springtime on slender spikes. They are native to Northern California and the Pacific Northwest. These are great when planted amongst native grasses and perennials that will fill the void during the Camass dormant period.
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Camassia Species and Varietals
The genus Camassia is a member of the plant family Asparagaceae and includes six species. Camass does best in zones 1-9 and 14-17, though this varies a bit depending on the species. See the descriptions below for more information. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Camassia howellii (Howell's Camas) This species of perennial flowering bulb is native to western Oregon, and is considered endangered due to residential development, mining, and grazing. Each plant produces about 4-7 leaves and a flower stalk that holds up to 100 flowers each. Blooms are a deep blue-violet color and are seen flowering in May. |
Camassia leichtlinii (Large Camas, Great Camas) Blooms on this species are violet to blue, and spikes reach 4 feet tall. Varieties include Camassia leichtlinii suksdorfii (with blue-violet flowers), Camassia leichtlinii leichtlinii (also called 'Alba', with blooms of blue-tinged white), and 'Semiplena' (with creamy white semi-double blooms). |
Caring for Camassia
Camass bulbs should be planted in fall, after temperatures have cooled about 3-4 inches deep and spaced 6 inches apart. Soil should be somewhat moisture retentive, and the planting area should be relatively undisturbed. The bulbs do not need much additional water during their summer dormancy.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 215, Camassia
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