Overview
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' is a perennial in the genus Camassia, part of the Asparagaceae family. Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Western North America.
About the genus
Camassia is a genus of plants in the asparagus family native to North America. Common names include camas, quamash, Indian hyacinth, camash, and wild hyacinth.
Wikipedia contributors, "Camassia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Camassia
In the garden
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' is a perennial from western North America that produces its flowering display in May–June. As a spring-flowering species it suits sites where the soil remains reliably moist during the growth season but drains freely once summer dries out. Grow it in full sun; exposure should be unshaded through spring to support a strong floral period. Soil may be sandy, loamy or clay, provided it is not waterlogged—moist but well-drained conditions are ideal. It is rated H7 for UK hardiness, meaning it will tolerate typical winter conditions across the country; the USDA range 3–7 indicates similar cold tolerance. Use Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' where a sunny, moisture-retentive patch is available: large herbaceous borders, meadow-style drifts and sunny edges of damp planting beds suit its cultural needs. Give it space to form groups so its spring display is noticeable, and choose a site where spring moisture persists until flowering finishes, as the plant’s May–June bloom relies on that seasonal soil moisture.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Camassia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Native to
- Western North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena'
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena'?
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' need?
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' hardy in the UK?
Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena'?
Seed, Division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Camassia genus
- Camassia leichtliniicamass Caerulea Group
- Camassia leichtlinii 'Atroviolacea'Great Camas
- Camassia leichtlinii 'Eve Price'Great Camas
- Camassia leichtlinii 'Orion'Quamash
- Camassia leichtlinii var. suksdorfiiQuamash