About
Camassia quamash, the camas or quamash, is a tufted, bulbous perennial growing to around 80 cm tall with long, narrow basal leaves. In late spring and early summer, erect stems bear dense spikes of starry, vivid blue flowers to 7 cm across. An important food plant for many Native American peoples, whose bulbs were gathered and cooked. A beautiful and reliable spring bulb for a sunny, moist border.
About the genus
Camassia, the camass or quamash, are bulbous perennials from North America with narrow, channelled, grass-like leaves and erect racemes of star-shaped, violet-blue or creamy-white flowers in late spring and early summer. Popular and reliable spring bulbs for moist, sunny borders and naturalising in grass.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming, Columnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting
Native toW USA, W Canada
ToxicityOrnamental 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
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, deep, humus-rich, fertile soil. Intolerant of waterlogging and may need some protection from frosts in colder areas. Very good for naturalising in meadows. 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
PruningCut back faded flower spike unless collecting seed
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Remove offsets when dormant in winter- see bulb propagation
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free