Camassia
Camassia spp. (incl. C. quamash, C. leichtlinii)
Camassia is a stately North American native bulb producing tall spikes of vivid blue, violet, or white star-shaped flowers in late spring. It symbolizes abundance, nourishment, and cultural heritage, especially within Indigenous North American traditions.
Asparagaceae (Asparagus family)
Late spring (April–June)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Few North American wildflowers carry as profound a cultural weight as Camassia. For numerous Indigenous nations of the Pacific Northwest and Great Plains, Camas bulbs were not merely food — they were the foundation of economies, trade, and community life. Camas prairies were carefully tended and harvested, and the sight of blue camas fields in bloom was associated with abundance and the promise of sustenance. Meriwether Lewis wrote admiringly of fields of blue camas that resembled lakes of clear blue water. The flower is a living symbol of Indigenous land stewardship and the deep human connection to native landscapes.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun
Water
Prefers consistently moist soil during spring growing season; tolerates seasonal flooding; can dry out in summer dormancy
Soil
Moist to wet, Heavy clay acceptable, Fertile, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant bulbs in fall, 3–4 inches deep, in moist, fertile soil
Ideal for rain gardens or low areas that stay moist in spring
Allow foliage to die back naturally after bloom to replenish bulbs
Naturalizes readily and increases in colonies over time
Do not confuse with Death Camas (Anticlea/Zigadenus spp.) — Death Camas has cream flowers and is highly toxic
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Naturalistic meadow and prairie plantings
- Rain gardens and moist borders
- Cottage gardens and perennial borders
- Mass planting for dramatic late-spring color
- Cut flowers — long-lasting in arrangements
- Pollinator gardens attracting bees and butterflies
Traditional Uses
- The bulbs of Camassia quamash were a critical food staple for many Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, including the Nez Perce, Blackfoot, and many other tribes — cooked by steaming or pit-roasting and used as a calorie-dense food source
- The Camas Meadows were sites of significant cultural, economic, and historical importance; the Battle of Camas Creek (1877) was partly fought over access to camas harvesting grounds
- Not used medicinally in a clinical sense; its primary cultural use was as food
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Camassia
What is camassia?
Camassia (also called Camas or Quamash) is a native North American bulb plant that produces tall spikes of blue, violet, or white star-shaped flowers in late spring. It was historically one of the most important food plants for Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
Is camassia edible?
Yes, the bulbs of Camassia quamash (Blue Camas) were a vital food staple for many Indigenous peoples, who cooked them by pit-roasting or steaming. However, it is essential not to confuse it with Death Camas (a different plant with cream-colored flowers), which is highly toxic.
When does camassia bloom?
Camassia typically blooms in late spring, from April to June, depending on the species and growing location. It produces striking tall flower spikes that stand out beautifully in meadows and borders.
What does camassia symbolize?
Camassia symbolizes abundance, nourishment, and cultural heritage. For many Indigenous North American nations, Camas fields represented community wealth and sustenance, making it a powerful symbol of the land's generosity and the importance of cultural memory.
How do you grow camassia bulbs?
Plant Camassia bulbs in fall, 3–4 inches deep, in moist, fertile soil in full sun to partial shade. They are ideal for rain gardens and moist meadow plantings. Allow foliage to die back naturally after bloom, and they will naturalize and multiply over the years.
What is the difference between camas and death camas?
True Camas (Camassia spp.) has blue to violet or white flowers and edible bulbs. Death Camas (Anticlea elegans / Zigadenus spp.) has cream or yellowish-white flowers and is highly toxic. Always identify carefully before harvesting — they can grow in the same meadows.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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