Plant Description:
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould, commonly known as great camas or Suksdorf's camas, is a perennial herb in the family Asparagaceae. This plant is native to the west coast of North America, from British Columbia to California, and is commonly found in moist meadows, damp areas, and near streams. It produces a deep-growing bulb that can grow up to 4 inches long.
Appearance:
The plant has narrow, sword-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long and produce spikes of beautiful blue-purple flowers that rise up to 4 feet tall. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, making it an excellent addition to a garden or natural landscape. The plant is a bulbous perennial which means it dies back to the ground every winter and returns in spring from an underground bulb.
Uses:
The bulbs of Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould, have edible roots, and were used by Native American tribes as a food source. These bulbs are rich in fructose and were often roasted or pit-cooked to prepare a sweet food similar to sweet potatoes. They were an important food source for many western tribes, including the Nez Perce, Cayuse, Yakama, and Klickitat. Additionally, this plant is used for erosion control and is a favorite of gardeners who enjoy the beautiful spike-like flowers that it produces.
Light requirements
Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii typically grows best in full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summer temperatures, it is best to provide some afternoon shade to prevent scorching of the leaves. However, in cooler climates, it can tolerate more direct sunlight.
Temperature requirements
This plant prefers cooler climates and can tolerate temperatures down to USDA hardiness zone 5 (-20 to -10 °F). It can be successfully grown in temperatures ranging from 40-80°F, but it performs the best when the temperatures are below 70°F.
Soil requirements
Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii prefers well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but prefers loamy or sandy soils. The pH of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic (around 6.0-7.0). Adding organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, can help improve soil texture and drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould, commonly known as Great Camas, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It is easy to grow in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant grows from bulbs and can tolerate temperature fluctuations. You can plant the bulbs in the fall or early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. Plant them in groups of 10-15 bulbs, spaced about 6-8 inches apart and about 3-4 inches deep.
Watering Needs
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould requires moderate watering. The plant prefers moist soil but tolerates periods of drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Be careful not to overwater the plant as it can cause the bulbs to rot. During the winter months, the plant requires less water.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done in the spring when the plant starts to grow. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer, at a rate of 1 tablespoon per square foot. Be careful not to get the fertilizer on the leaves or the bulbs, as it can cause burning.
Pruning
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould does not require pruning. The plant will naturally die back after it has finished blooming. You can remove the dead foliage once it has turned yellow and brown. However, be careful not to damage the bulbs, as they will provide next year's growth. If the plant has become too crowded, you can divide the bulbs in the fall or early spring.
Propagation of Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii
Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods, including seeds, division, and bulb offsets.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii can be sown directly outdoors in the fall or early spring. They prefer moist, well-drained soil with full sun exposure. Germination usually occurs within 4-6 weeks, and the seedlings will take 2-3 years to reach maturity.
Division
Camassia leichtlinii ssp. suksdorfii can be propagated through division in the fall after they have finished flowering. The bulbs should be carefully dug up, separated, and replanted immediately. Each division should have at least one shoot and one healthy root.
Bulb Offsets
Bulb offsets are small bulbs that grow attached to the parent bulb. They can be removed and replanted in late summer or early fall. Each offset should be planted at a depth of 2-3 times its height and spaced at least 6 inches apart.
Disease Management
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould is generally a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, some common plant diseases that might affect it include:
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause gray mold to form on the plant's leaves and flowers. To manage botrytis blight, remove infected leaves and flowers and make sure to water the plant only at its base.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause leaf discoloration and spot formation. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow-orange spots on the plant's leaves and flowers. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation.
For severe cases of plant disease, it may be necessary to use fungicide treatments. Consult with a local nursery or garden center for appropriate fungicides.
Pest Management
Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S. Wats. ssp. suksdorfii (Greenm.) Gould is generally a relatively pest-resistant plant. However, some common pests that might affect it include:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the plant's leaves and stems. To manage slugs and snails, use physical barriers (such as copper tape or mesh) or slug baits that contain iron phosphate.
- Thrips: These pests can cause discoloration and distortion of the plant's leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and provide adequate spacing between plants to improve air circulation.
For severe cases of plant pest infestation, it may be necessary to use chemical treatments. Consult with a local nursery or garden center for appropriate insecticides.
