Common Camas
Camassia quamash
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
24 inches
Width
8 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Bulbs are edible when cooked; raw bulbs may cause stomach upset.
The Story
Plant Bio
Camassia quamash, known as the small camass, is a bulbous perennial that produces striking blue flowers in clusters. This species is native to western North America and is highly valued for its ability to thrive in wet meadows and prairies.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in early fall.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around bulbs.
- Mist young plants regularly to maintain moisture during initial growth.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming for bulb health.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.
- Mulch with organic material to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure soil is well-draining to prevent bulb rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Allow foliage to yellow and die back naturally
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not disturb bulbs during dormancy
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
- Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Common Camas questions
What zones can Common Camas grow in?
Common Camas is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Common Camas deer resistant?
Yes — Common Camas is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Common Camas bloom?
Common Camas typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Common Camas need full sun?
Common Camas does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Grow Common Camas with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
