About

Camassia leichtlinii 'Aurora' is a deciduous perennial bulb that typically reaches heights of about 90 cm. It features long, slender green leaves that grow upright. From late spring to early summer, this plant produces spikes adorned with compact, star-shaped flowers that start as a pale mauve-purple and gradually transition to pale pink. Each bloom is characterized by vibrant green centers and golden yellow anthers.

About the genus

Camassia is a group of bulbous perennials characterized by slender, channelled foliage and upright clusters of star-shaped flowers that range in color from violet-blue to creamy-white, typically blooming in early summer.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed, Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Plant type

Bulbs

Habit

Clump forming, Columnar upright

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

0.5-1 metres

Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Time to full height

1-2 years

Suggested uses

Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildflower meadow

Toxicity

Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained fertile, humus-rich soil in sun or part shade, providing a winter mulch. Plant bulbs 10cm deep in autumn. May have the potential to become a nuisance due to prolific self-seeding if not managed well This plant was part of the RHS Camassia (quamash) trial 2024-2026

Pruning

No pruning required. Deadhead faded flower spikes

Propagation

Propagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or remove offsets when dormant in summer - see bulb propagation

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free