Camash
Camassia quamash
Last reviewed: June 2026
Camash (Camassia quamash) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Camassia quamash is a beautiful spring-blooming native bulb with striking blue-purple star-shaped flowers on tall stalks. It grows from a bulb and forms neat clumps with grassy foliage that dies back after flowering. This perennial thrives in moist areas and can naturalize over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Camash is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- Foliage may look untidy as it dies back after flowering
Wildlife value
The showy flowers of Camassia provide important spring nectar for native bees, butterflies, and moths. It's especially valuable as an early-season pollinator resource.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Camash fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.