Camassia quamash

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Camassia quamash

Camassia quamash (pronunciation: kəˈmæsiə kwɑːˈmæʃ), also known as common camas, small camas, or blue camas, is a perennial plant species native to North America. The term "quamash" is derived from the Nez Perce language, referring to the plant's edible bulb.

Description

Camassia quamash is a member of the Asparagaceae family. It grows in the wild in great numbers in moist meadows. The plant produces a spike of around 100 flowers, each with six petals, in varying shades of blue to purple.

Uses

Historically, the bulbs of Camassia quamash were harvested and used as a food source by various Native American tribes. They were either eaten immediately or dried for winter use. The bulbs were also traded between tribes and used in ceremonial feasts.

Cultivation

Camassia quamash is cultivated as an ornamental plant, for use in traditional, native plant, and wildlife gardens. It is a pollinator-friendly plant, attracting bees and other beneficial insects.

Medical Uses

While not commonly used in modern medicine, some Native American tribes used Camassia quamash as a treatment for various ailments. The bulbs were used as a poultice for sores and swellings, and a decoction of the bulbs was used to treat heart disease.

See Also

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