About

This bulbous perennial reaches a height of approximately 120 cm and features slender green foliage. In late spring, it produces upright stems that bear clusters of star-shaped, creamy-white flowers.

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

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained, Well-drained

Aspect

West-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-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

2-5 years

Suggested uses

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

Native to

USA (Oregon)

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, humus-rich, fertile soil. Intolerant of waterlogging and may need some protection from frosts in colder areas. 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

Cut back faded flower spike

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Remove offsets when dormant in winter

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free