Species Small Camas
blue flowers with yellow anthers, blue filaments, gray-green stems, and green leaves

Small Camas

Camassia quamash subsp. azurea

Small Camas (Camassia quamash subsp. azurea) is an impressive perennial wildflower that is native to western North America. It is distinguished by its tall, upright stems that are bear showy, sky-blue blossoms. The stems, up to 80 cm high, usually have a few sessile leaves, and flowerheads of up to seven flowers. Small Camas has a deep tuberous root system. It is an attractive plant, with its brilliant colour, often grown in gardens as an ornamental to add height in the border. During the summer, it produces its exquisite blossoms. Plus, it is easy to grow and can prosper in dry soils.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Offsets,Bulbils

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,azure

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Small Camas should be watered once a week approximately 2-3 inches of water. Make sure to water slowly to allow adequate soaking, and avoid over-watering. Soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. Keep in mind that during hot summer months in dry areas, more frequent watering may be needed.

sunlight

Small Camas grows best in full sunlight and does well when exposed to at least 6-7 hours of direct sun each day. It prefers growing in well-drained, fertile soils and can tolerate temperatures that range from -20 to 90 degrees F. In the spring, it blooms with beautiful lavender-blue flowers which peak between late April to mid June. To ensure that the plant is getting enough sunlight, it is recommended to plant it in an area that is unshaded and receives full sun for the majority of the day.

pruning

Small Camas should be pruned in late spring (May or June) after it finishes blooming. Prune off any dead or damaged leaves and stems at that time, as well as any very weak, heavily damaged stalks. Cut down any overly tall or spreading stems to promote bushier growth. Prune off any flower stalks as they wither to ensure that energy is focused on producing more foliage instead of seeds. Do not cut back into the green part of the stem, as you will damage the growing plant. The amount of pruning should be kept to a minimum, as this species thrives in an untamed habitat.