Origin
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould, commonly known as walpole's camas or walpole's quamash, is a perennial bulbous plant that is native to North America, specifically found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is commonly found in moist meadows, along streams, and on hillsides.
Common Names
Camassia quamash is known by various common names, including walpole's camas, walpole's quamash, common camas, wild hyacinth, and quamash. Its name 'quamash' is derived from a Native American term for the bulbs of this plant, which were used as a food source by indigenous people in the region for centuries.
Uses
The bulbs of the camassia quamash plant were an important food source for indigenous people in the Pacific Northwest. Once harvested, they were either roasted or boiled, and could be turned into a sweet pudding or soup. The bulbs were also used medicinally to treat a variety of ailments. Today, the plant is mostly used as a decorative addition to gardens and landscapes, where its showy blue or violet flowers add a vibrant splash of color.
General Appearance
Camassia quamash typically grows to be between 12 and 30 inches tall, with a single, unbranched stem. The plant produces long, narrow leaves that grow from the base of the plant and are around a half-inch wide. The flowers are borne on tall, erect spikes and are usually a deep blue or violet color, although white and pink cultivars are also available. The bulbs are round and can be up to two inches in diameter, with a brownish skin and white interior.
Light Requirements
Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei typically grows in sunny to partially shady areas. It can tolerate full sun exposure, but the soil must have consistent moisture. In partial shade, it can tolerate drier soils and may require less frequent watering.
Temperature Requirements
Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei is native to North America and is adapted to a wide range of temperatures. It can tolerate cold winters with temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) and prefers mild to warm summers with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (15-27°C).
Soil Requirements
Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei prefers moist, well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral with a pH range of 5-7.
This plant does not tolerate wet soils or stagnant water. In areas of heavy clay soil, amending the soil with organic matter can improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould, commonly known as Walpole's camas, is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to western North America, including the Oregon Coast Range and California's Sierra Nevada.
To cultivate Walpole's camas, it is recommended to plant it in USDA hardiness zones 5-9 with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH level of 6-8.
The plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated through seeds or by dividing the bulbs during autumn when the plants are dormant.
Watering Needs for Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould
Camas lilies require regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, not soggy, but not entirely dry.
The amount of water required can vary depending on the environmental conditions. During hot and dry weather, it may require watering twice a week, but during colder and wet weather, it may not need watering for several weeks. The plants should not be overwatered as they are susceptible to rotting if kept too wet.
Fertilization of Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould
Walpole's camas does not require heavy fertilization to grow. However, it can benefit from an application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, especially if the soil is lacking in nutrients.
The fertilizer should be applied in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. It is recommended to avoid overfertilizing, as it may lead to excessive foliage growth, which can weaken the bulbs and reduce the flower production.
Pruning Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene ssp. walpolei (Piper) Gould
Pruning is typically not required for Walpole's camas. After flowering, the spent blooms can be removed to promote a neat and tidy appearance.
The foliage should not be cut back until it has completely yellowed and died back naturally, as it helps to provide nutrition to the bulbs for the following season's growth.
Propagation of Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei
Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei is commonly known as Walpole's camas, and it is propagated both sexually and vegetatively. The reproductive methods used are bulbs, seedlings, and tissue culture.
Bulb Propagation
Bulbs are the most common propagation method for Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei. The bulbs can be collected and planted after the leaves have turned yellow and died. They should be planted 2-3 inches deep, preferably in the fall, and will sprout in the spring. Mature bulbs can be divided into smaller sections in the fall, making sure each section has at least one growth point. The small bulbs will grow into adult plants within a couple of years.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another method to propagate Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei. The seeds should be collected when the seedpods have dried out and turned brown. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry location until the following spring, then planted in the ground after the danger of frost has passed. Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei seeds can take several years to germinate, so patience is key.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is the third method to propagate Camassia quamash ssp. walpolei. Tissue culture is a laboratory technique that involves the growth of plant cells, tissues, or organs in an artificially controlled environment. This method is useful when there is limited available stock of the plant. Tissue culture propagation ensures that the plants produced have identical genetic traits to the parent plant.
