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Camassia leichtlinii subsp. leichtlinii

Californian white-flowered quamash

A bulbous perennial to 1.2m, with narrow leaves, glaucous above, and erect racemes of starry, creamy-white flowers 6cm in width in late spring

Other common names
large camas
Synonyms
Camassia leichtlinii subsp. leichtlinii 'Alba'
Camassia leichtlinii 'Alba'
see moreCamassia leichtlinii Alba Group
Camassia leichtlinii 'Alba' misapplied
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Green
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or South–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Camassia are bulbous perennials with narrow, channelled leaves and erect racemes of star-shaped violet-blue or creamy-white flowers in early summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
USA (Oregon)

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, fertile soil. Intolerant of waterlogging and may need some protection from frosts in colder areas. May have the potential to become a nuisance due to prolific self-seeding if not managed well

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Remove offsets when dormant in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back faded flower spike

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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