Large camas (Camassia leichtlinii, Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 20: 376 (1885))

Family: Asparagaceae

Author: (Baker) S.Watson

Bibliography: Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts 20: 376 (1885)

Year: 1885

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Camassia

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. British Columbia to C. California

Description

Large camas, known scientifically as Camassia leichtlinii, is a perennial plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family. Described in 1885 under the authorship of (Baker) S. Watson, this striking plant boasts vibrant characteristics and an important ecological presence.

Native to regions spanning from southern British Columbia to central California, Large camas thrives in meadows and grasslands, often flourishing in moist, well-drained soils. This geographical spread underscores its adaptability to different temperate climates within the Pacific Northwest and California.

Large camas is celebrated for its tall, slender spikes that can reach impressive heights, adorned with an abundance of star-shaped flowers that range in color from pale blue to deep violet. These blossoms typically emerge in late spring to early summer, creating a breathtaking display that is not only visually appealing but also beneficial for local pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

This plant holds significant cultural and historical importance. Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest have long utilized Large camas bulbs as a food source, which were traditionally harvested, cooked, and consumed as part of their diet.

Ecologically, Camassia leichtlinii serves as an excellent species for native plant restoration projects and sustainable gardening. Its robust nature and enchanting beauty make it a favored choice among gardeners looking to cultivate a piece of the natural landscape within their own spaces.

In summary, Large camas (Camassia leichtlinii) is a distinguished member of the Asparagaceae family, characterized by its stunning floral display and deep-rooted historical significance, extending its charm and utility from the wild meadows of British Columbia to the valleys of California.

Common Names

Eng: large camas, great camas, leichtlin’s camas
Swe: mörk stjärnhyacint
Fra: camassie de leichtlin
En: Large camas, Great camas, Leichtlin’s camas
Fr: Camassie de Leichtlin
Sv: Mörk stjärnhyacint

Synonyms

• Camassia leichtlinii subsp. typica (Gould)
• Camassia esculenta var. leichtlinii (Baker)
• Quamasia leichtlinii ((Baker) Coville)

Distribution

• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Apr 14, 2020 by Patrice Simon (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 12, 2021 by bernard Diederichs (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2020 by Anton Chi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2019 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2019 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 6, 2021 by Cécile LM (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 22, 2022 by Samuel Hawksby-Robinson (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 31, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2021 by K Desvignes (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 18, 2021 by _Blümchen_ (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 11, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 9, 2020 by amal sayed (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2020 by babe preyer (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 15, 2022 by AMANDA BRAND (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2021 by Plantlord Rock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2021 by K Desvignes (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 18, 2021 by _Blümchen_ (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1185087-2)
• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2769069)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Camassia leichtlinii (Baker) S.Watson)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth