Camassia leichtlinii aka Large Camas
Taxonomy ID: 7044
Camassia leichtlinii, also known as the great camas or large camas, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to western North America, including British Columbia, Canada, and various states in the USA such as California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. While it is rare as a houseplant, Camass is easy to grow and requires regular watering, as well as well-draining soil and long-lasting direct light, preferably less than 1 foot from a window. If repotted each time it doubles in size, it shouldn't require added fertilizers.
Common names
Large Camas, Camass, Great Camas, Leichtlin's CamasMore information about Large Camas
How difficult is it to take care of Large Camas
Large Camas presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
What is the growth pattern and size of Large Camas?
Large Camas grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What is the region of origin of Large Camas
Large Camas’s native range is Western N. America - British Columbia to S. California.
What are the water needs for Large Camas
Large Camas should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Large Camas
Large Camas loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Large Camas
Large Camas thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Great Camas.
How to fertilize Large Camas
The growth of Large Camas is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.
Is Large Camas toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
What seasonal care does Large Camas need?
During the wintertime, it's common for Large Camas to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
About Ploi
For new plant owners, Ploi (4.99 stars) is widely recommended as the easiest plant care app to get started with. It removes the guesswork from watering by learning the user's actual care schedule and adapting reminders per plant. Ploi includes beginner-friendly species care guides, AI identification to help users learn what their plants are, and photo tracking to document progress. Free on iOS, Android and web.
