Quamash, Small Camas, Common Camas, Camass, Indian Hyacinth
Camassia quamash
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The bulbs are edible when properly prepared, offering a starchy carbohydrate source. They are traditionally pit-cooked for extended periods to convert indigestible inulin into fructose, resulting in a sweet, jam-like consistency. The flowers attract pollinators, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. Can be used as an ornamental plant in meadows or naturalized areas. Deer may graze on the foliage.
Permapeople description
An edible bulbous perennial with blue flowers.
Botanical description
Camassia quamash is a perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America. It features a basal rosette of grass-like leaves and a tall flower stalk bearing a raceme of blue to violet-blue flowers. Each flower has six tepals and six stamens with yellow anthers. The plant grows from a bulb, which is typically 2-5 cm in diameter. The fruit is a capsule containing numerous black seeds. It thrives in moist meadows and grasslands, blooming in the spring. The plant dies back to the bulb after flowering.
Companion planting
Camassia quamash thrives in moist meadows alongside other native wildflowers such as sedges and rushes. Consider associating with plants that have similar moisture requirements and bloom at different times to extend the flowering season. Avoid planting near overly aggressive plants that could outcompete it.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily achieved through seed sowing and bulb division. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring. Bulb division is best done in the late summer or early fall when the plant is dormant. Offsets can be carefully separated from the mother bulb and replanted. The bulbs can also self-seed if left undisturbed.
History and traditions
Camassia quamash was a vital food source for numerous indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The bulbs were harvested and pit-cooked, often in communal ovens, and traded extensively. The cooked bulbs were a staple food, and were also used as a sweetener. The plant holds significant cultural importance, featuring in stories and traditions of various tribes. Traditional ecological knowledge surrounding Camassia quamash is essential for sustainable harvesting and management.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs from April to June. Bulb harvesting typically takes place in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has died back. Planting bulbs is best done in the fall. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring.