Description
Camassia scilloides, commonly called Wild Hyacinth or Atlantic Camas, is a native spring-flowering bulbous perennial that typically grows to 1-2 feet tall. It is best grown in moist, acidic, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. If planted from seed, they will likely take a few years to bloom, so don’t give up if you don’t see color the first spring after planting.
The bulbs of C. scilloides are edible (raw, baked, roasted or boiled) and were once a significant food source for some native American Indians and early North American explorers/settlers. However, it should be noted that the bulbs of a very similar plant commonly known as death camas (Zygadenus nuttallii) are very poisonous if ingested. Unfortunately the bulbs of these two genuses are sometimes difficult to distinguish from each other by observation.
Wildlife notes
The flowers attract their fair share of insects, including many bees and flies, and occasional butterflies and wasps. Most of these insects seek nectar from the flowers, although some short-tongued bees also collect pollen. White-Tailed Deer occasionally chomp off the tops of the basal leaves.
Forage notes
Neither foliage nor bulbs are considered to be toxic to livestock.
Landscaping notes
Best grown in moist, fertile, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Does best in full sun, but easily tolerates open woodland conditions. Plant bulbs 4-6” deep and 6” apart in fall. Tolerates clay soils. Plants need regular moisture during the periods of spring growth and bloom but will tolerate drier conditions after bloom as the plants head for summer dormancy. Best left undisturbed once planted. In the alternative, plants can be grown from seed, but will not bloom until the 3rd or 4th year. Showy blooms are great as cut flowers.
Restoration notes
It is native to a variety of habitats including low rich woods, wet open woodlands, open meadows, stream banks, limestone glades, ledges, rocky slopes and prairies, often on calcareous soils.
This species is typically found in high quality habitats, whether prairies or woodlands.
Watch a video of this plant:
Additional information
| Weight | N/A |
|---|---|
| Unit | Packet, Ounce, Pound |
| Light | Full Sun to Part Shade |
| Seeding Rate | 12 bulk lbs/acre |
| Soils | Dry, Average |
| Height | 9"-12" |
| Bloom Month | Apr, May |
| Color | Grey, White |
| Specialty Uses | Landscaping, Edible |
| # seeds/pkt | 200 |
| Packet coverage area | 5 sq ft |
