How to identify Camas (Camassia)

How to identify Camas (Camassia)

Camas, also known as Indian hyacinth, Quamash

Camas presents as an herbaceous perennial with a striking display of robust, star-shaped flowers atop erect stems. Typically blooming in summer, these blooms exhibit a color spectrum from pale lilac or white to deep purple or blue-violet. The flowers gather densely, offering a rich tapestry of color across moist meadows. The foliage consists mainly of basal leaves, with the flowering stalks reaching heights of 1-3 feet (30-90 cm). A healthy camas promises to enliven gardens year after year.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Camas

Basal linear leaves, 8-32 inches (20-80 cm) long, emerge in spring and die back after flowering.

Robust star-shaped flowers in shades from pale lilac to deep purple on 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall stalks.

Racemose inflorescences with symmetrical star-like florets in hues of deep blue to pale lilac.

Flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, not scented, enhancing garden colors.

Distinctive bracts, slender and close to blooms, contributing to the bracteate appearance.

Detailed Traits of Camas

Leaf Features

Camas features basal linear leaves that range from 8 to 32 inches (20 to 80 cm) in length. Emerging early in the spring, these leaves are characterized by their elongated, grass-like shape, and typically die back after the plant flowers. The leaves are a vibrant green, with a smooth texture and parallel vein pattern that runs the length of the leaf. The linear shape and timing of the emergence are key identifying features of camas.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Camas flowers are characterized by racemose inflorescences with star-shaped florets that open from the bottom up. The flower stalks reach heights of 24-30 inches (60-75 cm). Each floret features six narrowly lanceolate petals, combining to form a symmetrical, star-like pattern in hues of deep blue to pale lilac. The flowers are generally not scented and bloom in late spring to early summer. Bracts are slender, lying close to the blooms, enhancing their bracteate appearance.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

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