Camassia quamash aka Camash

Taxonomy

Camassia quamash, also known as camas, small camas, common camas, common camash, or quamash, is a clump-forming, bulbous perennial herb native to western North America. It can be found in large areas of southern Canada and the northwestern United States, ranging from British Columbia and Alberta to California, and east from Washington state to Montana and Wyoming. Growing up to about 30cm tall, this plant has mid-green, grass-like leaves with narrow cream borders. In late spring and early summer, it produces upright stems that bear a dense spike of rich blue, star-shaped flowers, measuring up to 7cm across. Camas is not only an edible plant but is also cultivated for its ornamental value, capable of transforming entire meadows into a stunning blue-violet hue.

Common names

Camash, Wild Hyacinth, Camosh, Common Camas, Common Camash

How to care for Camash

Difficulty

Camash presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Camash should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Camash 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.

Lighting

Camash 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 Camash.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Camash to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Camash is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Camash grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Camash’s native range is Western N. America - Washington to California, east to Montana and Utah.


More info:
Wikipedia