Atlantic Camas

Camassia scilloides

Physical Characteristics

Camassia scilloides is a BULB growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America. - Ontario to Wisconsin and southwards.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Bulb - raw or cooked[257]. The bulb was an important food for several native North American Indian tribes who used it in a variety of ways[257]. It can be baked or dried and made into a powder which can be used as a thickener in stews or as an additive to cereal flours when making bread, cakes etc[62, K]. The bulb is about 4cm long and 15mm wide[235].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known