Atlantic Camas
Camassia scilloides
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Pl. 0BBE — Camassia scilloides
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IOverview
Overview
Atlantic Camas (Camassia scilloides) is a flowering plant native to the eastern and central United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Wisconsin. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun, making it suitable for gardens or naturalized areas. Its distinctive feature lies in its height of about 0.6 meters and its ability to grow in various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, with a pH range of 4.2–6.5. The plant's hardiness spans zones 6-9, allowing it to survive in a variety of climates.
Quick answers
What is Atlantic Camas?
Atlantic Camas (Camassia scilloides) is a flowering plant native to the eastern and central United States, ranging from Alabama and Arkansas to Wisconsin. Known for its edible roots, this plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun, making it suitable for gardens or naturalized areas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Atlantic Camas thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows up to 0.6 meters tall. For best results, maintain a soil pH between 4.2 and 6.5. Propagate through root division or seed sowing. Harvest the edible roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
4.2–6.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Atlantic Camas for the first time
8steps
Start with Atlantic Camas as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small bulbs, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late summer for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.2 and 6.5, and prepare it by mixing in some compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs about 10 cm deep and 15 cm apart; sow seeds directly into the ground at a depth of 3-4 times their size.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and ensure consistent moisture. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage after flowering to maintain the plant's appearance, but avoid cutting into healthy green growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should watch out for.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Atlantic Camas (Camassia scilloides) is edible and its roots can be eaten raw or cooked. Typically, the roots are harvested in autumn after frost and then prepared by boiling or roasting to make them more palatable. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 23 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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