Origin
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc., commonly known as Utah Camas, is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to California and eastward to Montana and Wyoming.
Common Names
Utah Camas is also known by its common names Wild Hyacinth and Camas Lily. Its scientific name, Camassia quamash, comes from the Native American word "camas" which refers to the edible bulbs that were harvested by indigenous people.
Appearance
The Utah Camas is a bulbous perennial that can grow up to 60cm tall. It has linear leaves that are often 1-2 cm wide, and a flowering stalk that produces a dense raceme of blue to lavender flowers. The flowers are funnel-shaped, with six petals and a yellow center. The large bulb of the plant is important to its survival, as it stores the nutrients needed for growth and can also allow the plant to survive during periods of drought.
Uses
The Utah Camas was an important food source for Indigenous Peoples. The bulb of the Camas Lily was eaten either raw or cooked and is an incredibly significant cultural food for the Pacific Northwest. The plant was also used medicinally, as the Native Americans believed that it contained healing properties and could treat a variety of ailments. Today, the Utah Camas is grown ornamentally in gardens and adds a beautiful blue-violet hue to any flower bed or garden landscape.
Light Conditions
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc. prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It grows well in partially shaded areas or under filtered sunlight. However, it cannot tolerate extreme heat and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during midday hours.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc. is between 15 to 24? (59 to 75?). In the summer, it can survive in temperatures as high as 30? (86?), but it is essential to ensure that it stays hydrated and shaded. During winters, it can tolerate freezing temperatures as low as -20? (-4?).
Soil Conditions
The plant prefers well-draining soil that retains moisture for an extended period. It is adaptable to a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay-textured soils. However, it requires a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc. grows best in soils that are rich in organic matter and provide good drainage. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils and requires adequate watering during dry periods.
Cultivation
Camassia quamash var. utahensis can be grown in a variety of soils, from sandy to clay, as long as they are well-draining. The plant requires full to partial sun exposure and prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH level.
Plant the bulbs in the fall at a depth of 4-6 inches and space them 6-8 inches apart. After planting, mulch the area to retain moisture and protect the bulbs from extreme cold and heat.
These plants can also be grown in containers, making sure the pot has good drainage and is filled with the appropriate soil mixture.
Watering Needs
Camassia quamash var. utahensis requires regular watering during the growing season, from spring to early summer, to keep the soil evenly moist. During the dormant season, reduce watering but do not let the soil completely dry out. Overwatering can lead to bulb and root rot, so it's essential to monitor moisture levels closely.
Fertilization
Camassia quamash var. utahensis does not require heavy fertilization but will benefit from a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Be careful not to apply too much fertilizer, as it can burn the plant's leaves and roots.
Pruning
Camassia quamash var. utahensis does not require any pruning, but removing spent flowers can help to divert the plant's energy back to producing healthy foliage and bulbs. After the flowers have faded, allow the foliage to die back naturally before cutting it down to ground level. This process helps the plant to store energy for the following year's growth.
Propagation of Camassia quamash var. utahensis
Camassia quamash var. utahensis can be propagated by several methods, including seed sowing, vegetative division, and bulb offsets.
Seed sowing
Seeds should be collected from the plant when they are fully ripe, which is typically in mid-summer to early fall. The seeds should be cleaned and dried before storage. To sow the seeds, prepare a well-draining soil mix and sprinkle the seeds on top, then press them lightly into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the container in a cool, shaded location. After germination, the seedlings should be carefully transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden.
Vegetative division
To propagate via vegetative division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs in early fall after the foliage has died back. Separate the bulbs and replant them immediately in their new location, making sure to water them well. As with seed sowing, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Bulb offsets
Bulb offsets are small bulbs that develop around the base of the parent bulb. They can be gently removed and replanted in the fall, just like with vegetative division. As with any propagated Camassia, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Camassia Quamash (Pursh) Greene var. Utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc.
Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc. is generally a hardy plant and is not particularly prone to diseases and pests. However, there are a few issues that may affect the plant. These include:
Diseases
Pink Rot: Pink rot is caused by the fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, which can infect the bulbs and leaves of the plant. Symptoms include yellowing and browning of the leaves, as well as soft and watery rot in the bulbs. Infected plants should be immediately removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the fungus. Replanting in the same location should be avoided.
Basal Rot: Basal rot is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum and can be characterized by wilting of the leaves and soft, discolored tissue at the base of the plant. The fungus can spread through contaminated soil and water, so it’s crucial to avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil drains properly. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed as soon as possible.
Pests
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can be serious pests for Camassia quamash. They typically feed on the tender leaves of the plant, leaving a trail of slime as evidence of their presence. A few effective ways to deal with these pests include creating a barrier of crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant, as well as using a natural slug repellant such as copper tape or beer traps.
Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that can cause damage to leaves and flowers by puncturing the tissue and sucking out the sap. Infected plants may exhibit stunted growth, distorted leaves and flowers, and discoloration. Mitigating thrips infestations can be challenging, but can be done with the use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or sticky traps.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap out of the plant and excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew. Like thrips, they can cause stunted growth and distorted plant features. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soap, or introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
In conclusion, Camassia quamash (Pursh) Greene var. utahensis (Gould) C.L. Hitchc. is a beautiful and hardy plant that can thrive with proper care and disease and pest management. Keeping an eye out for issues such as pink rot, basal rot, slugs and snails, thrips, and aphids, and addressing them immediately can help maintain healthy and flourishing plants.
