Cusick's Camas
camassia cusickii
Also known as: ["Cusick's Camas","Camassia cusickii"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its star-shaped blue flowers and linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Camassia |
| Botanical Name: | Camassia cusickii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, especially in warmer climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-drained to moderately drained.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid deep shade for best flowering; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate pots for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water at the base to avoid foliage; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; adjust frequency based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil does not stay waterlogged; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture during growth.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); prefers cooler conditions during growth and flowering.
Protect from extreme heat during flowering; avoid planting in hot, exposed locations; monitor soil moisture in fluctuating temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid leafy growth at the expense of flowers; apply fertilizer before rain or watering for better absorption; clean foliage after application.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up mature clumps.
- Separate bulbs carefully.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Late summer or early fall when the foliage has died back but before winter dormancy.
Environment
Cool, shaded conditions with moderate humidity during propagation.
Medium
Well-drained soil mix with added sand or grit for bulb division.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division.
Timeline
Bulbs can be replanted immediately; new growth may appear the following spring.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; replant divisions at the original depth; water sparingly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; allow foliage to die back naturally.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks after flowering to tidy appearance and redirect energy to bulb development.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; do not cut back foliage until it yellows; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after foliage dies back.
Pot Size
Choose a pot at least 8–10 inches deep with a diameter 2–3 inches wider than the bulb clump.
Method
Use a well-drained potting mix; plant bulbs at twice their depth; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Camassia cusickii is typically grown in garden beds; container planting is possible but requires deep pots and division every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Inspect bulbs for damage; use fresh soil mix; plant at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; avoid wetting foliage; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist; ensure water penetrates the root ball; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth in spring; reduce watering after flowering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during dormancy in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate sand or grit for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or stunted growth in excessive heat; rot or failure to flower in overly cold or wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause root damage if soil is waterlogged; may exhibit delayed emergence in spring.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot; mulch lightly in winter in colder zones; avoid overwatering in cool weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage to wilt or scorch, especially if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply to keep roots cool; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop after flowering.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth begins; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; discontinue after flowering.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCamassia cusickii is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCamassia cusickii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCamassia cusickii is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Camassia cusickii grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–2 feet in height.
Q: Does Camassia cusickii require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: When does Camassia cusickii bloom?
A: It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing blue flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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