Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' (Quamash) — Perennial

Overview

Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' is a perennial in the genus Camassia, part of the Q157167 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

Camassia leichtlinii 'Plena' is a spring-flowering perennial that blooms in May–June. It favours full sun and soils that are moist but well-drained, from sandy to clay types. Native to western North America, it is fully hardy in the UK (H7, USDA 3–7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Camassia leichtlinii

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.

More in the Camassia genus

Browse all Camassia →