Camas Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody' (v)
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Blue Melody' boasts a striking visual appeal. Its most noticeable feature is the captivating display of star-shaped blue flowers that bloom in an attractive, upright fashion. These blossoms are neatly perched atop sturdy stems, presenting a look of elegance and natural poise. The foliage of 'Blue Melody' is also a notable aspect, characterized by its lush green leaves that are edged with creamy variegation, adding a contrast that truly complements the blue flowers. The leaves show a lance-like shape, which gives the plant a dense and textured ground covering when not in bloom. Overall, 'Blue Melody' is admired for its charming blue flowers and decorative leaves, making it a desirable choice for adding splashes of color to garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
Small Camas, Camass, Quamash, Indian Hyacinth, Wild Hyacinth
Common names
Camassia esculenta, Camassia leichtlinii var. suksdorfii, Camassia suksdorfii, Phalangium quamash, Phalangium esculentum.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as camas is not considered highly toxic to humans if properly prepared. However, it should be noted that when consumed raw or improperly cooked, it can cause gastrointestinal upset because it contains inulin, a complex sugar that can be hard to digest. The plant bulbs must be thoroughly cooked to break down the inulin into fructose, which is more easily digestible. Failure to do so can cause cramping, bloating, and gas. It's important to differentiate between camas (Camassia quamash) and death camas (Zigadenus spp.), the latter of which is highly toxic and can cause serious consequences if ingested due to its alkaloid content, unrelated to Camassia. Always ensure proper identification of wild plants, as mistaking Camassia for toxic look-alikes can lead to poisoning, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even death in severe cases.
To pets
Camas is not commonly reported to be highly toxic to pets, but as with humans, there could be risks if pets consume the plant raw or in large quantities. Eating the bulbs, which contain inulin, can cause digestive discomfort in pets, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms are due to the fact that inulin breaks down into fructose more easily after cooking, making it less challenging to digest. So, while the plant is not generally regarded as highly poisonous, its consumption by pets is not advisable because of the potential for gastrointestinal upset. The same caution applies with regards to the correct identification of camas to prevent confusion with other toxic species that could have more severe effects on pets' health.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody' has attractive blue flowers that add vibrant color to spring and early summer gardens.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is known for being low-maintenance, thriving in a variety of soil types, and requiring minimal care once established.
- Attracts Wildlife: The blooms of Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody' are appealing to pollinators such as bees, which are important for garden health and biodiversity.
- Naturalizing: This plant has the ability to spread and naturalize in an area, making it useful for filling spaces in a landscape and creating a wildflower meadow effect.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners looking to reduce water usage.
- Edible Bulbs: Historically, the bulbs of the Camassia plant have been consumed by Indigenous peoples, although this usage is less common now and falls outside ornamental gardening.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Culinary Enhancer: The bulbs of Camassia quamash, commonly known as Common Camas, can be roasted or boiled to serve as a sweetener in various traditional Native American recipes.
- Garden Aesthetics: Camas bulbs are planted to naturalize in grassy areas, providing a burst of blue-violet flowers amidst green landscapes.
- Photography Subject: Due to its striking flowers, Common Camas is a popular subject for botanical photographers and artists.
- Educational Resource: The plant is used by educators to discuss topics such as indigenous agriculture, ethnobotany, and prairie ecosystems.
- Wildlife Attraction: Camas fields are known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: The extensive root system of Common Camas can help stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes.
- Heritage Preservation: Planting Common Camas is a way to maintain and celebrate the cultural heritage of Native American tribes who traditionally harvested the bulbs.
- Companion Planting: Common Camas is sometimes used in companion planting to visually complement other spring-blooming bulbs and perennials.
- Seasonal Indicator: The blooming period of Common Camas is sometimes used by gardeners and naturalists as a phenological indicator of late spring/early summer.
- Craft Material: After the blooms have faded, the seed pods and stiff stems of Common Camas can be used in dried flower arrangements and other crafts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Common camas is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Common camas is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: The Camassia quamash, commonly known as the Camas, thrives in tough environments and is capable of surviving with minimal care, therefore symbolizing the ability to endure and persevere through challenges.
- Adaptability: The Camas is known for its adaptability to various habitats, representing flexibility and the capacity to flourish in a variety of conditions.
- Nourishment: Traditionally used by indigenous people for its edible bulbs, the Camas symbolizes physical and spiritual sustenance and the importance of natural resources.
- Hope: Blooming in spring with its vibrant blue flowers, the Camas epitomizes hope and the promise of renewal after a long winter.
- Peace: The Camas's calming blue hues are often associated with tranquility and peace, suggesting a state of serenity and harmony with nature.
WaterSmall Camas should be watered moderately during their active growing season, typically once a week with about 1 gallon of water for each plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. During the dormant period, after the flowers and leaves have died back, reduce watering significantly and only water lightly if the soil becomes very dry. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to bulb rot.
LightSmall Camas thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, plant them in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, especially during the hottest part of the day, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureSmall Camas is hardy and can endure a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 0 to as high as 75°F. The ideal growing temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 70°F. They can survive brief periods of colder temperatures but should be protected from prolonged freezes.
PruningSmall Camas generally does not require significant pruning. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this process helps the bulb store energy for the next growing season. Once the leaves have turned yellow or brown, they can be removed. Pruning is usually done annually, typically in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has died back.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCamas prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of loam, compost, and sharp sand can improve drainage and fertility.
RepottingCamas, being a perennial bulb, generally doesn't require frequent repotting. Assess and repot every 3-4 years, if necessary, to prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingCamas thrives in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments and does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place camas in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant camas in sunny spot with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as Blue Melody camas, Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody' (v) begins its life as a bulb, which typically starts to sprout in late winter or early spring. The plant then produces long, slender leaves that form a basal rosette at ground level. As the season progresses, a tall flowering stalk emerges, showcasing star-shaped blue flowers in dense clusters that bloom in late spring or early summer. After pollination, typically by bees, the flowers give way to seed capsules that mature by late summer. Once the seeds have dispersed, the foliage will begin to yellow and die back, with the plant entering a period of dormancy in the fall. The cycle resumes the following spring when the bulb regenerates its foliage and prepares for another flowering season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Camassia quamash 'Blue Melody', commonly known as the small camas, is by dividing its bulbs. This process is ideally done in the fall after the foliage has died back, allowing the plant to redirect energy into the development of the bulbs. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring minimal damage to the roots and bulbs. Once lifted, gently separate the bulbs by hand. Each bulb can be replanted immediately; they should be placed in holes about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) deep and spaced approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) apart to provide enough room for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs well to establish them. This method allows for a relatively quick increase in numbers and easy establishment in appropriate garden conditions.
