bulb corm tuberN. America Native

Leichtlin's Camas

Camassia leichtlinii

The Story

Plant Bio

A native perennial bulb that produces tall spikes of star-shaped blue flowers.

Known for its striking blue flowers and tolerance to a variety of soil conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesTall, striking flower spikes add vertical interest to gardens.
Practical UsesBulbs are edible and historically used as food source by indigenous peoples.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

36 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Bulbs are edible when cooked; do not eat raw.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck corms into well-draining soil in early fall for best blooms.
  2. Water regularly during active growth, especially in dry periods.
  3. Mist cuttings if propagating via offsets in early spring.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced bulb fertilizer in fall and spring.
  5. Divide clumps every 3-4 years for vigorous growth.
  6. Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and control weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant corms at a depth of 4-6 inches for strong root development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during growing season 💧
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and fall 🌱
  • Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Do not plant in poorly drained soil to prevent rot ❌
  • Refrain from disturbing bulbs during flowering period

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Perennial border with tall, elegant flower spikesNaturalized woodland garden with shade-tolerant plantsVanilla-scented cut flower arrangements

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Leichtlin's Camas questions

What zones can Leichtlin's Camas grow in?

Leichtlin's Camas is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Leichtlin's Camas deer resistant?

Yes — Leichtlin's Camas is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Leichtlin's Camas bloom?

Leichtlin's 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 Leichtlin's Camas need full sun?

Leichtlin's Camas does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Leichtlin's 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.