Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. teapeae (St. John) St. John
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. teapeae (St. John) St. John is a flowering plant that belongs to the asparagus family. It is commonly known as common camas, quamash, and blue camas. The plant is native to North America and is widespread in many regions of the United States.
General Appearance
The plant is characterized by a grass-like basal leaves, and a tall, slender stem that grows up to 80 cm in height. The leaves are linear and up to 60 cm in length. The flowers are distinctive with intense purplish-blue petals that are fused at the base. The fruit is a capsule that contains many seeds.
Uses
Camassia quamash has a long history of use by various Native American tribes. The plant was a staple food source for many tribes in the Pacific Northwest. The bulbs of the plant were harvested and used as a food source after being cooked in earth ovens. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes by some Native American tribes for the treatment of various ailments such as rheumatism and stomachaches. In modern times, the plant is grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive blue flowers and grass-like foliage.
Growth Conditions for Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae
Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It typically grows in moist meadows, along streams, and in open woodland areas. Let's explore the growth conditions required for this plant to thrive.
Light Requirements
This plant prefers partial to full sun exposure. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day. When grown in too much shade, it may produce fewer flowers and become lanky or spindly. In locations with ample sunlight, the foliage will be more compact with sturdy stems.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows best in a moderately moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 and tolerates both sandy or clay soils. As with most bulbs, good drainage is crucial for avoiding bulb rot. Additionally, a thick layer of mulch over the soil will help provide the necessary insulation needed for overwintering in colder climates.
Temperature Requirements
Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae is winter hardy and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8. It requires a period of cold temperatures, typically in the range of 32-40°F, during its dormant period to bloom well in the spring. The plant blooms in late spring, and late frost or unseasonably cold temperatures may damage or delay flowering. In warmer climates, it may be necessary to chill the bulbs in the refrigerator for several weeks before planting.
Water Requirements
Despite being moisture-loving, this plant prefers well-drained soil, so be sure not to over-water. During the active growing season, water deeply about once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. In the dormant season, do not water at all as this could increase the risk of bulb rot.
Cultivation Methods
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. teapeae (St. John) St. John, commonly known as Camas Lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western North America. The plant prefers moist soil with good drainage and grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Camas lily can be propagated through seeds, bulbs, or division of established clumps. The best time to plant the bulbs is in the fall, before the first frost. The bulbs should be planted at a depth of 4 to 6 inches and spaced about 6 inches apart.
Watering Needs
Camas lily requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once a week, but reduce the frequency of watering during periods of heavy rain. In the winter, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks, as the plant becomes dormant.
Fertilization
Camas lily does not require regular fertilization. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, once a year, in the early spring. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can result in excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Camas lily does not require pruning, as it naturally dies back in the winter. However, you can remove the dead foliage in the late fall or early spring to maintain a neat appearance. Cut the foliage off at ground level, and dispose of it properly to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae
Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae, or Teape's camas, is a plant that can be easily propagated through various methods.
Propagation by seed
The most common method of propagating Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae is by using seeds. The plant produces small, black seeds that can be collected in the fall after the seed pods have dried out and turned brown. Once collected, the seeds can be planted directly into the soil in the fall or prechilled and sown in the spring. It is important to keep the soil moist and well-drained for successful germination.
Propagation by division
Another method of propagating Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae is by division. This method involves digging up the plant during its dormant period and separating the bulbs. Each division should have at least one healthy bulb and several roots. The bulbs can then be replanted immediately in their new location. Division should be done in the fall or early spring before new growth appears.
Disease Management
Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae may be susceptible to various fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is Botrytis blight, which causes brown spots and blight on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Other fungal diseases that may infect Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae include powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices by removing infected plant material and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may also be applied preventively or curatively to control the spread of fungal diseases. However, it is always important to follow the instructions on the fungicide label and practice safety precautions when applying them.
Pest Management
Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae may also be vulnerable to pest infestations that can cause damage to the plant and reduce its overall health and vigor. One of the most common pests that attack this plant is the Camassia bulb fly. The bulb fly lays its eggs on the bulbs, and the larvae feed on the inside of the bulbs, causing them to rot and eventually kill the plant. Other pests that may affect Camassia quamash ssp. teapeae include aphids, thrips, and spider mites.
To manage pest infestations, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of insect damage and to take appropriate measures to control them. This can include removing infected plant material, applying insecticidal soap or horticultural oils, or introducing beneficial insects that feed on the pests. It is also important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can attract pests and make the plant more susceptible to infestations.
