Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody'
bulb corm tuber

Camassia quamash Blue Melody

Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

12 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 for humans when cooked, but can be confused with toxic species. Raw bulbs may cause mild stomach upset.

The Story

Plant Bio

Camassia quamash, commonly known as the common camas, is a perennial herb with grass-like leaves and tall flower spikes bearing star-shaped, bell-like blue flowers in late spring to early summer. Camassia 'Blue Melody' is distinguished by its attractive variegated foliage with cream-colored margins, which provides interest even before the vibrant blue flowers appear.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds early spring color with elegant blue flowers, attracting pollinators.
Practical UsesNative species suited for drought-prone areas, requires minimal intervention.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil.
  2. Water regularly during active growth period.
  3. Mist cuttings if propagating from seed, keep moist for 6 weeks.
  4. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best blooms.
  5. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in fall.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture
  • Divide clumps every few years

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
  • Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Violet-scented borderNative plant gardenEarly spring flower bed

Companion Plants

Alliums Fritillaries California poppies Lavender Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Camassia quamash Blue Melody questions

What zones can Camassia quamash Blue Melody grow in?

Camassia quamash Blue Melody 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 Camassia quamash Blue Melody deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Camassia quamash Blue Melody, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Camassia quamash Blue Melody bloom?

Camassia quamash Blue Melody typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Camassia quamash Blue Melody need full sun?

Camassia quamash Blue Melody does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Camassia quamash Blue Melody 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play